As responsible dog owners we must make sure that we do not spoil [beaches] for others

Deana Selby NCDL

Alan Woods, the TBG's chief executive, said: "Since the outbreak of foot-and-mouth, 10-times as many owners have been walking their dogs on the beach.

"Dog control is one of the most important criteria when attaining a Blue Flag, which is why every award-winning beach has a section where pets can be exercised away from the bathing area."

Deana Selby, of the National Canine Defence League, said: "We urge all dog owners to carry a poop scoop with them whenever their dog goes for a walk, and the beach is no exception.

'Doggy areas'

"Walking your dog on a beach is a real pleasure, and as responsible dog owners we must make sure that we do not spoil them for others.

"Blue Flag beaches with special doggy areas nearby are something we should be proud of, so let's make the most of them."

The Tidy Britain Group is urging holidaymakers to visit the beaches.

Britain has 55 of the very best beaches in Europe

Alan Woods TBG

Mr Woods added: "Last year, around 27 million people visited the British coastline, spending nearly �5bn in the process.

"By publishing these results today, we are giving a guarantee to the public that Britain has 55 of the very best beaches in Europe and we are saying to everyone - if you get the opportunity, visit them.

"You'll have a good day out and will help our tourist industry in this time of crisis."

Standards improved

The European Blue Flag is awarded only to resorts that pass stringent inspections of beach management and safety.

Water must be clean enough to have achieved Guideline Standard - the highest defined by European Law.

Award winners can fly a Blue Flag during the bathing season, from the beginning of June to the end of September.

They must also display water quality and the facilities they provide on easy-to-read signs.

Standards in the UK have risen since 1992, when only 17 British beaches were awarded the Blue Flag.

Although this year's total falls short of the 57 Blue Flags achieved last year, Britain can still claim to have more top class beaches that 11 of its European partners.