Clacton and Southend beaches water quality 'poor'

Warning signs may have to go up on two Essex beaches where the water quality has officially been rated as poor.

The beaches are at Clacton and Southend have failed to meet standards set in a new, tougher directive from the European Union.

Tendring District Council spokesman Nigel Brown said they were not aware of anyone falling ill after swimming off the two beaches which would remain open.