THANET'S beaches have been awarded seven coveted Blue Flags, which are only given to the best beaches in Europe.

Minnis Bay in Birchington has received the accolade for the fifth year in a row, while Westbrook Bay retained the award for the fourth consecutive year.

West Bay in Westgate has been named for the second year in succession and Margate Main Sands regained the Blue Flag it last held in 2004.

For the first time, St Mildred's Bay in Westgate, Walpole Bay in Cliftonville and Viking Bay in Broadstairs all received the award.

The county as a whole received nine Blue Flags with Leysdown and Beach Street, Sheerness on the Isle of Sheppey making up the numbers.

The Blue Flag is awarded for high standards of cleanliness and water quality, as well as ease of access to beaches and facilities.

Cllr Roger Latchford, Thanet's cabinet member for commercial and operational services, said: "This is a tremendous boost for our tourism trade ahead of the summer season.

"It tells the rest of the country that Thanet is home to some of Europe's top beaches. It's a superb result."