BATHING waters across the Island have been national recognised as 'excellent' at this year's Solent Quality Awards.

Ten Island beaches have been rated 'good' or 'excellent' with Seagrove Bay improving from 'good' to 'excellent' for the quality of its bathing water.

The Island was successful in gaining ten awards at Colwell, Cowes, Gurnard, Ryde, Sandown, Seagrove Bay, Shanklin, St Helens, Ventnor and Yaverland.

Cllr John Hobart, cabinet member for environment and heritage, said: "Bathing waters along the 57 miles of the Isle of Wight coastline have never been cleaner in recent times.

“We have worked hard with our partners at the Environment Agency and Southern Water to ensure we keep these standards high so that visitors and residents alike can continue to enjoy our safe, clean water.”

Will Myles, managing director at Visit Isle of Wight, said: "It's fantastic news that the Isle of Wight has been given a 'good' or 'excellent' rating for water quality at ten of the amazing beaches on our coastline."