British beaches are cleaner than ever

In 2008, 2009 and 2012 beaches in Britain suffered as unusually wet summer weather caused more pollution to run onto beaches at ground level and via overloaded sewers.

In contrast, last years summer was the driest on record, leading to much lower levels of contamination.

Met Office data suggests the early summer in Britain is more likely to be unusually wet than unusually dry, however, which could lead to another increase in pollution.

By 2015 all beaches will be required to meet at least the minimum sufficient standard under the EU Bathing Water Directive, which is about twice as tough as the current standard.

Beaches which do not make the grade will have to feature prominent signs warning visitors against bathing from the summer of 2016 onwards.

Rachel Wyatt, Coastal Pollution Officer for the MCS, said: It's great news that we are able to recommend more beaches than ever for excellent water quality and it shows just how good British beaches can be.

The main challenge now is maintaining these standards, whatever the weather.

Most people don't realise what a big impact the weather can have on bathing water quality.

Originally posted here:

British beaches are cleaner than ever

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