5 days ago
Ayrshire beaches named among best in Scotland
Eight Ayrshire beaches from Millport to Girvan have been named as winners of Scotland's Beach Awards.
Eight of Ayrshire 's finest beaches have been named as some of the best in Scotland after winning recognition in the Scotland's Beach Awards.
Ayr South Beach, Barassie Beach, Girvan Beach, Irvine Beach, Maidens Beach, Newton Beach at Millport, Prestwick Beach and Troon South Beach all met the criteria and high standards set out to be recognised.
Scotland's Beach Award, organised by Keep Scotland Beautiful, celebrates the achievements of well managed beaches across Scotland.
The prestigious flag helps visitors and locals chose where they want to visit, with the knowledge that the beach is being looked after for people and the environment.
Only Fife with 13 award-winning beaches had more listed than Ayrshire as 52 beaches across Scotland were recognised.
Both Maidens Beach and Troon South Beach have retained their award status for more than a decade - 12 and 10 years respectively - while Newton Beach on Great Cumbrae has made a comeback after flood defence works prevented it from entering over the past couple of years.
Barry Fisher, CEO of Keep Scotland Beautiful said: 'Scotland's award-winning beaches demonstrate excellent beach management and we hope that all who visit this year play their part in keeping them beautiful.
'I'd like to congratulate all those who do so much to protect, maintain and enhance our beaches, protecting the sand and sea for us all to enjoy – from the local authorities to the communities who care so passionately about these phenomenal assets.
'Scotland's Beach Awards are the benchmark for quality, celebrating clean, well-managed and sustainable beaches and it is testament to those who look after them that so many have received awards over decades.
'We would love to encourage more communities to work towards accreditation of their beaches and are currently seeking sponsorship of the programme so we can enhance capacity and capability in communities which boast stunning beaches.
'Please get in touch if you can help us.'
Vicki Miller, VisitScotland chief executive, said: 'Scotland has thousands of miles of coastline, providing a huge choice of beaches to enjoy stunning scenery and unique experiences.
'Whether visitors are looking for tranquil islands and rural escapes or the bustling cities and towns boasting serene shores, there is something for everyone.
'Congratulations to all the winners for their achievements. It is particularly encouraging to see some beaches making a return to the awards. This demonstrates a real dedication to improving the visitor experience and environment.
'Our communities, along with our natural and cultural heritage, are what make Scotland so special. It is vital we protect and preserve them for the future.'
North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: 'Newton Beach has a long track record of receiving this national beach award and unfortunately due to the flood defence works it couldn't participate the past couple of years.
'We are delighted this high-quality beach and valued community asset has been recognised again.'
