NI beach standards 'on the rise'

All NI beaches did reach the European mandatory standard

The standard of Northern Ireland's shoreline has risen significantly in the last year, according to the Good Beach Guide.

Half of NI's beaches have been commended by the guide for having excellent bathing conditions.

Of the 27 beaches monitored by the Marine Conservation Society, 13 have been rated as being top quality.

A further 10 would have made the list if the local sewage discharge had been treated to an adequate standard.

However, all of Northern Ireland's beaches did reach the European mandatory standard.