Ards & North Down beach blue flags bring a sense of local pride

June 02, 2021 1 min read

Wednesday 02 June 2021

Rachel Woods MLA has said that Blue Flags and Seaside Awards allocated this week to beaches and marinas across Ards and North Down are a source of great pride for local people.

The Green Party MLA said: "Ards and North Down boasts some of the most beautiful natural habitats, beaches and marinas in Northern Ireland. These are a source of great pride for local people, are enjoyed by so many and can really boost mental health and emotional well-being.

"The pandemic has brought a renewed enjoyment of our beaches and beauty spots, with many new converts to sea swimming, for example, reaping the physical and mental benefits of access to free, outdoor exercise.

"My message however, is that we should only leave behind footprints when visiting our beaches and beauty spots. Too often a busy day on the beach means rubbish and mess left behind. Please leave the beach as you find it and be mindful of your environmental impact.

"We are the custodians of the beautiful natural resources that we have. The onus is on everyone to protect and enhance our beaches and beauty spots for the wildlife we share them with and our future generations."

ENDS

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