Sixth time lucky for Banff Links
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THE beach at Banff Links has secured the coveted Rural Seaside Award Flag from Keep Scotland Beautiful for the sixth successive year, while nearby Sandend beach has received it for a third year in a row.
They were among nine Aberdeenshire beaches to receive the acclaim from the country’s leading charity for the environment.
The award, given annually, recognises high standards of cleanliness, safety, and water quality.
Also flying the flag in Aberdeenshire this year will be Balmedie (since 2006), Collieston (since 2004), Cruden Bay (since 2010), Fraserburgh (since 2008), Fraserburgh Waters of Philorth (since 2008), Peterhead Lido (since 2008) and Stonehaven (since 2007).
Derek Robertson, Keep Scotland Beautiful’s chief executive, said: "With an increasing number of people choosing to take their holidays at home in Scotland, there has never been a better time to enjoy your local Aberdeenshire beaches.
"The seaside award highlights that these beaches are an important resource to the local economy and that they are your beaches to enjoy.
"There is something for everyone among this year’s Scottish winners - from large beaches with lifeguarded swimming areas and bustling promenades, to secluded bays which are havens for wildlife, and windswept beaches perfect for wind and kite surfing."
He added: "I am delighted that Aberdeenshire has achieved nine seaside award flags this year – over the past 12 years the number of awards in Scotland has more than quadrupled.
"There were just 13 in 2000, so I would like to pay tribute to all the hard work that goes in to achieving and keeping these awards by Aberdeenshire Council and the local communities, and I would encourage everyone, particularly in this economic climate, to make use of the fantastic beaches we have around the Scottish coast this summer."
A map showing all the award-winning beaches with descriptions, directions and facilities can be found at www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/coastal, along with an option for people to rate their favourite.
