CORYTON Cove, Dawlish, has been selected for national recognition in the first Quality Coast Awards. In Teignbridge, it joins Teignmouth town beach and the Ness beach, Shaldon, among 73 British beaches that have been given the thumbs-up by the brand-new award, which recognises the diversity and quality of England's coastline. Every Quality Coast Award beach has to meet a cross-section of strict criteria. These include excellent cleanliness – free from litter and dog fouling and good physical condition – making the most of the natural surroundings and be free from graffiti and vandalism. Facilities must also be clean and in good working order, have safe access and appropriate signs. Deputy chief executive of Teignbridge Council, Phil Shears, said: 'We are delighted with the news and my thanks go to all the Teignbridge staff and local towns who have worked hard together to make our coastal resorts worthy of the new awards. 'We have a strong track record of award-winning beaches along the Teignbridge coastline, with eight consecutive Blue Flag Awards for Dawlish Warren, and many seaside awards for additional local beaches. 'These new awards will demonstrate that we continue to take our responsibilities for maintaining good quality, customer-friendly beaches and facilities very seriously and that we are nationally recognised for our efforts.' Alan Woods, chief executive of ENCAMS, which runs the Quality Coast Award, said: 'The traditional seaside experience of building sandcastles and snacking on ice cream is still favoured by many. 'But it is just one of the reasons why people go to the coast. Others use the beach as a place to walk their dogs or to have a breath of fresh air whatever the weather. 'The Quality Coast Award commends those beaches that can offer the best cleanliness, facilities and standards for the type of visitor their sandy stretch attracts.'
