Four beaches across South Ayrshire have been recognised for their high standards with an award-winning status.

Ayr South Beach, Maidens, Prestwick and Troon (South Beach) all claimed Scottish Beach Award status in 2019 from environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful.

The annual Scottish Beach Awards recognise the best beaches across the country and act as the benchmark for local environmental quality all along Scotland's coastline.

For a beach to be successful in achieving a Beach Award, it has to meet a range of criteria, including beach safety, access and facilities, and cleanliness.

Focusing on local environmental quality, the award is designed to complement the work currently undertaken by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency on bathing water quality.

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Councillor Ian Cochrane, Environment Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council, said: "We are extremely proud that four of our beaches have won this prestigious award. It's great that Prestwick beach has been recognised, as we have worked closely with the local community to return the amenity beach to its former glory.

"It's a huge commitment to maintain large stretches of heavily used beach and I'd like to thank all those who work tirelessly to keep our beaches clean and safe."

Derek Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, commented: "I would like to congratulate South Ayrshire for setting such high standards and securing its Scottish Beach Awards. With the country set to mark 2020 as Scotland's Year of Coasts and Waters, it is only right that we celebrate the achievements of communities, organisations and local authorities across the country in making sure that our beaches provide visitors with the fantastic shoreline experience that they deserve.

"Scotland's coastlines and waters attract thousands of visitors every year. These beach users can be assured that where they see the Scottish Beach Award flag they will have the experience they are looking for: a clean beach, excellent amenities and signposting about the local area, as well as information about water quality."

A full regional list of award winners can be found here.