Blue flags on 12 beaches in East

Cromer beach is boosted by a blue flag

Blue flags have been awarded to 12 beaches in Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.

Southend in Essex received three, with Jubilee Beach regaining its status. Lowestoft in Suffolk got two and Cromer and Brightlingsea retained theirs.

In six years the number of Blue Flag beaches in England has nearly doubled, with 82 in 2008 compared to 45 in 2002.

Keep Britain Tidy chief executive Phil Barton said: "As far as we are concerned, England's beach resorts go from strength to strength."

EAST OF ENGLAND BLUE FLAG WINNERS Brightlingsea Beach, Essex Cromer, Norfolk Dovercourt Bay, Essex Felixstowe South, Suffolk Jubilee Beach, Essex Lowestoft North, Suffolk Lowestoft South, Suffolk Mundesley, Norfolk Sea Palling, Norfolk Shoebury Common Beach, Essex East Beach, Shoeburyness, Essex Southwold Pier Beach, Suffolk

The increase in the quality of beaches is attracting more and more visitors, according to Mr Barton.

"We keep being told that our love affair with the seaside has been on the rocks but this is not the case.

"Now is the time for the English to rekindle passion for traditional beach holidays in this country.

"With 12 resorts along the east coast of England with Blue Flag status there is a variety of choice on offer.

"The beaches are fabulous places to visit and that's official. Blue Flag is only awarded to beaches that have good access, top notch facilities, are litter-free and have clean sea-water.

"We are challenging people to avoid overseas air travel and be kind to the environment by holidaying at home."