SEVEN Blue Flag awards have been awarded to Thanet's beaches once again, more than any other district in the UK.

Only the best beaches in Europe are granted Blue Flags if they can meet tough criteria.

In the south east region, extending to the Isle of Wight, only 19 Blue Flags have been award.

Minnis Bay has received the accolade for the sixth year running and West Bay for the third year.

Thanet's other Blue Flag beaches are Margate Main Sands, Westbrook Bay, St Mildred's Bay, and Broadstairs' Stone Bay and Botany Bay.

They have had to comply with tough water quality guidelines and meet other criteria including the provision of public toilets, access for disabled visitors and first aid facilities as well as having either lifesaving equipment or lifeguards on duty.

Other Thanet beaches this year recommended in the Good Beach Guide include Ramsgate, Broadstairs main beach, Joss Bay, Walpole Bay and Margate Fulsam Rock.

Viking Bay, Walpole Bay and Ramsgate Main Sands were awarded Quality Coast Awards earlier this year.

Cllr Roger Latchford, cabinet member for economy and culture, said: "This new set of Blue Flag awards proves once again that Thanet's beautiful beaches and bays really are the best in the country.

"It's the second year we've received more Blue Flags than any other district or borough in the UK and I'm exceptionally proud of that."