The water's lovely around Southwold Pier

They are among a total of 105 UK beaches to have passed stringent cleanliness tests to win the coveted award.

The charity ENCAMS, organisers of the Keep Britain Tidy campaign, said the total smashed last year's record of 83.

The Blue Flag is seen as key to a successful tourist season for many resorts.

The five Norfolk beaches to make the grade are Sheringham, Sea Palling, Gorleston, Mundesley and Cromer.

In Essex the flags will be flying at Shoebury Common, Shoeburyness East and Southend's Three Shells beaches in the south of the county and Dovercourt Bay in the north.

In Suffolk Lowestoft North Pier is back on the list after failing to make the grade last year.

Southwold Pier, Felixstowe South and Lowestoft South of the Pier all retain their awards from last year.

The award is only given to beaches that have water clean enough to pass the toughest tests set down by European law and top draw facilities including lifeguards, first aid and good access for disabled visitors.