BEACHES across Poole, Bournemouth and Purbeck will once again be flying the exclusive Blue Flag.

The accolade recognises coastal destinations that have achieved the highest quality in water, facilities, safety, commitment to the environment and management.

This year, awarded beaches include Branksome Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman's Walk, Swanage, Southbourne and Alum Chine.

Sandbanks has received its 31st award in a row.

A total of 15 Dorset beaches - including Friars Cliff and Avon Beach in Christchurch - have been awarded a 'seaside award' by Keep Britain Tidy.

The south west of the UK has won more awards for its beaches under the scheme than anywhere else in the country.

Keep Britain Tidy’s chief executive Allison Ogden-Newton said: "We are committed to creating a great environment on our doorstep for everyone to enjoy and offering a quality mark that shows everyone just how fantastic our beaches can be."

Blue Flag beaches:

Sandbanks

Shore Road

Canford Cliffs

Branksome Chine

Alum Chine

Fisherman's Walk

Southbourne

Swanage

Weymouth

Seaside awards:

Bournemouth Pier

Boscombe Pier

Alum Chine

Durley Chine

Southbourne

Fisherman's Walk

Branksome Chine

Canford Cliffs

Shore Road

Sandbanks

Avon Beach

Friar's Cliff

Highcliffe

Swanage

Weymouth