A record eight NI beaches won the prestigious accolade

Eight beaches have proven to have clean enough sand and water to become eligible for the award.

Three more beaches earned the award this year than in 2003 and the White Rocks beach in Portrush, County Antrim, has won a blue flag for the first time.

It is hoped the accolades will bring more tourism to the areas.

Northern Ireland's strong showing is matched elsewhere in the UK with most regions maintaining or improving on their scores from last year.

Jillian Bill of Tidy Northern Ireland said the beaches should capitalise on the honour.

NI's BLUE FLAG BEACHES Ballycastle, County Antrim Benone Strand, County Londonderry Cranfield West, County Down < Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry Portrush East Strand, County Antrim Portrush West Strand, County Antrim Portrush White Rocks, County Antrim Tyrella, County Down

"I think we both recognise as they do in parts of Wales and the English Riviera, that tourism is the lifeblood of our economy and that there are huge opportunities to get more visitors in on the back of these awards," she said.

"Beach-goers still tend to be families, who are looking for clean, safe places to visit.

"This vote of confidence in our resorts means that we can give them just that and it is time we got on the front foot and actively encouraged them to come here and enjoy a day beside the sea."