Drop in Scottish Blue Flag beaches

Burntisland is one of the three Scottish beaches to retain Blue Flag status

Scotland has lost five of its acclaimed Blue Flag beaches in the latest round of awards by Keep Scotland Beautiful.

The environmental charity said those applying had to meet an even stricter global water quality standard.

The three remaining Blue Flag beaches were Aberdour Silver Sands, Burntisland and Elie Ruby Bay, all in Fife.

Those losing out on the internationally recognised award were Coldingham, Broughty Ferry, Kinghorn (Pettycur), Elie Harbour and Leven.

Along with the Blue Flags, a list of Seaside Awards mean 59 beaches in total were recognised for excellent litter management, safety procedures and water quality.

The other commended beaches range from Loch Morlich and Portmahomack in the Highlands, to Montrose Seafront, Portobello and North Berwick.

Online map

Derek Robertson, chief executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: "Our new Clean Up Scotland campaign aims to engage with individuals and communities who love their beaches, encouraging them to organise clean-up events of their own.

"Already, almost 100 beaches have held community clean-ups this year as part of the campaign, including many of the award beaches.

"We know that beach users, whether they are local or visitors from near or far, want to enjoy clean beaches with well-maintained facilities and access."

A map showing all the award-winning beaches with descriptions, directions, facilities and pictures can be found online, along with a facility for people to rate their favourite award beaches.