BOURNEMOUTH’S award-winning seafront is flying the Blue Flag after another addition to its growing showcase of awards.

The award-winning seafront saw Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk and Southbourne Beach all given 2012 Blue Flag status by Keep Britain Tidy.

The flag is given in recognition of the fantastic facilities, high quality of water, being litter free and providing a safe environment for visitors along the seven miles of golden sandy beaches, which features two historic piers and nearly 2,000 beach huts. Bournemouth Pier Beach and Boscombe Pier Beach have also each been handed a Quality Coast Award, which rewards beaches in England that achieve the highest standards of beach management.

Mark Smith, director of tourism, said: “Once again, we are thrilled to have achieved Blue Flag status and two Quality Coast awards.

“We take great pride in our beaches and our seafront team work had to ensure visitors have the best experience when visiting our beaches.

“These awards have come at a great time, especially as many UK residents are choosing to holiday at home this year.

“With its excellent reputation and host of year-round activities, Bournemouth provides the perfect staycation.”

Earlier this year, Bournemouth was voted the UK’s number one beach destination and the fourth best beach destination in Europe by millions of TripAdvisor users.

The eyes of Britain also watched last month, as the golden sands provided the setting for the UK’s first beach hut wedding, live on national TV.

The annual Blue Flag awards are an internationally-recognised award, which have been given to 79 English beaches, guaranteeing visitors peace of mind that their trip to the seaside will be clean and litter-free.

Dorset recipients of the 2012 Blue Flag are: Sandbanks, Shore Road, Canford Cliffs, Branksome Chine, Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk and Southbourne Beach.

Quality Coast Award Winners 2012 are: Boscombe Pier Beach, Bournemouth Pier Beach, Friars Cliff, Avon Beach and Highcliffe Beach.