BUDE'S beaches have been internationally recognised for their high standards.

Widemouth Bay has just been awarded its first Blue Flag, while Crooklets and Summerleaze beaches have both won impressive Seaside Awards for their water quality, facilities and management. This means that any visitor to the area will be guaranteed a top quality beach experience in 2015 — wherever they decide to lay their towel.

The awards are thanks to the work of local environmental groups who made the application with the support of the wider community.

A spokesperson said: "This is unique and proves that Bude is a hotbed of community partnerships where the health of the town's beaches is seen as being for the greater good of the entire community."

Widemouth Bay's Blue Flag — an international quality mark for beaches demonstrating the highest quality of water, facilities, safety, environmental education and management — was applied for by the Widemouth Task Force, an 800 strong group that dedicates itself to keeping Bude's beaches clear of marine litter. Ado Shorland raised the money for the application by approaching local businesses.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.