National recognition for quintet of beaches

ENVIRONMENTAL charity Keep Scotland Beautiful has recognised the high standards set by five of Shetland’s most picturesque beaches.

The Sands of Breckon, St Ninian’s Isle, Tresta, West Sandwick and West Voe beaches have all been praised for the high standards they offer to visitors –Including staying litter-free and offering excellent information and clean facilities.

Each of the five has been accredited with Scotland’s Beach Award, a newly launched “quality benchmark” for visitors along Scotland’s coastline.

SIC environment and transport committee chairman Michael Stout said: “It’s easy to become complacent about our beautiful natural surroundings, and to have so many of our wonderful beaches included in these national awards is a great reminder of what a special place Shetland is.”

Keep Scotland Beautiful chief executive Derek Robertson said beaches were “an important asset to communities and their economies”.

“It is greatly encouraging that so many beaches have received an award,” he said. “Environmental quality needs priority attention and we will continue our work to support organisations’ efforts [to] ensure that Scotland’s coastline offers a great day out.”

• A map showing all the award-winning beaches can be found at www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/beach.