FOUR beaches in the county are flying high after retaining their Blue Flag status.

Llandudno West Shore, Llanfairfechan, Penmaenmawr and Rhos/Colwyn beaches have all been awarded the Blue Flag, a world renowned eco-label for water quality, environmental awareness, protection, safety and services.

A further four beaches have secured the Seaside Award, the national standard for the best beaches across the UK that ensures visitors are guaranteed to find a clean, attractive and well managed coastal stretch.

These include Kinmel Bay, Llandudno North Shore, Porth Eirias and Abergele Pensarn.

Llandudno mayor, Cllr David Hawkins, said: “It is great news for Llandudno. We have fantastic beaches and we want to thank all those involved that keep them looking nice. It is fantastic for tourists too.

“West Shore have a friends group who rally together to do litter picks.”

Cllr Don Milne, cabinet member for Environment, Roads and Facilities said: “We are pleased that four very popular beaches in Conwy County Borough have achieved Blue Flag status and that four others have gained Seaside Awards for their good water quality and facilities.

“These awards are an important part of our tourism offer, and the tourism industry in turn is a vital part of our local economy.”

The awards are run by Keep Wales Tidy.

Across the country, 44 Blue Flags are flying at 40 beaches, three marinas and one boat tour operator and 40 beaches have achieved the Seaside Award.

Lesley Griffiths, minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, said: “We’re lucky in Wales to have some of the world’s finest beaches right here on our doorstep.

“It’s pleasing to see so many of our beaches receiving these awards as recognition of the hard work being done across Wales to keep our beaches and waters clean.

Award winners were celebrated on May 15 at a ceremony hosted by Conwy County Borough Council.