Weymouth’s popular central beach has once again been recognised with an international Blue Flag Award.

The beach has also been handed a Seaside Award from Keep Britain Tidy, one of 125 beaches in the country to do so.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s beach management team has been praised for its role in keeping the resort looking its best.

Swanage Central beach has also picked up both awards.

The Seaside Award recognises beaches that meet the highest standards of cleanliness and facilities while the Blue Flag is handed to only the best beaches in the world.

Weymouth Central beach was given its first Blue Flag award in 15 years in 2016.

The announcement means the South West retains its title as Britain’s beach capital, having won more awards than anywhere else in the country.

Cllr Richard Kosior, Weymouth & Portland Borough Council Briefholder for Tourism, Culture and Harbour, said: “Weymouth Beach draws residents and tourists to its shores, come rain or shine. The views from Weymouth Beach and the bay are spectacular, stretching across the horizon and taking in the Jurassic Coastline. This three mile stretch of sea and sand is a highlight of many people’s summer holiday.

“This award wouldn’t have been achieved without our dedicated Beach Management Team, alongside the businesses and concessions that we work in partnership with. We’d like to thank every individual that has participated in ensuring Weymouth Beach is recognised for its brilliance.”

Keep Britain Tidy’s chief executive Allison Ogden-Newton added: “Blue Flag leads the fightback for the Blue Planet. Our research shows that nearly two thirds (65 per cent) of parents would prefer to visit beaches with Blue Flag or Seaside Award status, so growing the number of beaches with an award is vital to encourage more families to visit our beautiful coastline.

“Blue Flag and Seaside Awards set the standard for our beaches, including the war against the litter and plastic that does so much damage to our marine environment.

“Keep Britain Tidy leads the fight to create clean, plastic-free beaches. We are committed to creating a great environment on our doorstep for everyone to enjoy and offering a quality mark that shows everyone just how fantastic our beaches can be.

“It’s brilliant to see so many beaches in the South West and the rest of the country winning Blue Flag and Seaside Award status this year, thanks to dedication and hard work of beach staff and volunteers who work tireless to maintain the high standards. Hopefully next year we’ll see an even greater number joining us as we drive up standards across the board.”

This year’s winners will be presented with their flags at a ceremony today (THURS) on Cromer Pier, hosted by North Norfolk District Council.