Flagging Up Top Beach

And the accolade is underlined by the blue and yellow Seaside Award flag now fluttering over the promenade, as a symbol of the high standards of facilities and management of the beach.

Littlehampton was one of 317 beaches to receive the award, after being assessed for facilities such as first aid, clean toilets, disabled access and bathing water quality.

Each of the award-winners was then further inspected by organisers Environmental Campaigns (Encams), and after a more detailed marking system was completed, Littlehampton beach was one of just 61 awarded a top grade A rating, as superbly managed.

Arun chairman Jacqui Maconachie raised the flag at Littlehampton seafront on Friday, at a ceremony when she was joined by new Littlehampton mayor Wendy Squires.

Adding a musical flavour to the occasion were members of the Regis Jazz Band, and the same sea breeze which fluttered the flag carried the notes of Sussex by the Sea along Littlehampton's promenade.