The bathing waters around Brightlingsea have been rated ‘excellent’ according to the latest information from the Environment Agency.

The rating means the water in the Colne Estuary is amongst the cleanest in the country, along with the waters off  Walton, Frinton, Holland-on-Sea, Clacton, Jaywick, Dovercourt. Clacton’s Martello Beach and Manningtree Beach are rated ‘good’.

Councillor Mick Barry, Tendring District Council’s (TDC) cabinet member for leisure and public realm, said the results were a huge boost for tourism and local pride.

“Our Essex Sunshine Coast is one of the district’s greatest assets – and these latest water quality ratings show it’s among the best in the country,” he said.

“Clean, safe bathing waters give confidence to residents and visitors, encouraging people to stay longer and enjoy everything our coastline has to offer. Coupled with our Blue Flag beaches – at Brightlingsea, Dovercourt Bay, Frinton and Walton’s Albion Beach – these results underline Tendring’s reputation as a top seaside destination.”

Nationally, 87% of bathing waters were rated ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’, and 93% met minimum standards, marking a slight improvement on last year.