Keep Britain Tidy has revealed the effects of flooding in recent years has led to a small decrease in the number of English beaches awarded Blue Flag status for 2009.

Blue Flag awards have been given to a total of 71 beaches across the country, compared with 82 last year, although the number of Quality Coast Awards handed out has increased from 82 to 113. The newly-formed Cornwall Council picked up the highest number of Blue Flag awards for any local authority, with eight beaches in the county recognised as offering a high-quality environment and facilities for beach-goers.

Despite the nationwide fall in the number of beaches receiving Blue Flag awards, it is still a healthy increase on the 45 beaches that made the grade in 2002, with Keep Britain Tidy now encouraging people to make the most of the English coastline this summer. The campaign's chief executive, Phil Barton, said: "Holidaying in this country is the perfect way of saving money and having a great time. Whether it's a question of variety, accessibility or value for money, enjoying our wonderful beaches is the ideal way to recharge your batteries.

"Instead of worrying about exchange rates, baggage handlers or forgetting passports, we're urging people in England to make the most of their own magnificent coastline."