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15 May 07Poole Beaches Celebrate 20 Years Of Blue Flags
Poole’s ranking as Britain’s top beach destination has been confirmed as it receives the prestigious Blue Flag 
for a recording-breaking twentieth year.
Sandbanks, along with Canford Cliffs Beach, Shore Road and Branksome Chine beaches were each awarded Blue Flag status, ranking them among the best in the world.
A group of 30 children from Turlin Moor Middle School in Hamworthy, Poole, helped to mark the celebrations by forming a giant ‘20’ on Sandbanks beach.
This year is the twentieth anniversary of the first award of Blue Flag status to Poole’s beaches. Poole’s first Blue Flag was received in 1987 and Poole has received the award every year since, with the one exception of 1995.
Clive Smith, Head of Leisure Services, Borough of Poole, said: “This award is extremely important to us. We work hard to maintain very high standards for Poole’s beaches every year. We are dedicated to ensuring that our outstanding beaches continue to rank as some of the best in the world and the Blue Flag awards prove this.”
The Blue Flag Award is given annually by ENCAMS and is an international recognition for well-managed beaches which have good bathing water quality, regular beach cleaning, provision of lifesaving equipment and first aid, refreshments, suitable toilet facilities, a commitment to the environment and generally good beach management.
Cllr Peter Adams, Borough of Poole, said: "I am delighted that Poole's beaches have been recognised yet again by the Blue Flag judges. We can be rightly proud of our success, which is made possible due to the hard work and dedication of our staff. We are not complacent and we are continuing our work to enhance our beautiful beaches."
Bruce Grant-Braham, Chairman of Poole Tourism Partnership, said: "Not only does this award confirm Sandbanks reputation as Britain's best beach, it also recognises Poole in the same league as the top Mediterranean destinations. Our superb international reputation is built on a stunning environment and this unique Blue Flag achievement is testament to the town's passion for quality and aspiration to be the best."
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