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By Andrew Brown
Formby's popular beach has once again been awarded an 'Excellent' bathing water rating, according to the latest annual assessment by the Environment Agency.
The Environment Agency has published its latest bathing water classifications for officially designated swimming spots across England, with Formby retaining the highest possible rating.
The annual assessments measure water quality at designated bathing waters and classify each location as Excellent, Good, Sufficient or Poor based on water samples collected during the bathing season.
Across England, around two-thirds of bathing waters achieved the top 'Excellent' rating, while around one in every 14 sites was classified as 'Poor', meaning it failed to meet minimum water quality standards.
The good news for beachgoers closer to home is that none of Merseyside's official bathing waters received a 'Poor' classification this year.
The latest map shows Formby among the region's highest-rated beaches, while other nearby bathing waters were graded either Good or Sufficient.
The Environment Agency publishes updated bathing water classifications every year following testing throughout the bathing season. The ratings are designed to help swimmers and visitors make informed decisions about where to enjoy the coast safely.
The full interactive map and regional rankings are available via the Environment Agency
Anyone planning a swim or a long walk on the sands can check the Formby tide times first, as the shoreline changes a great deal between high and low water.
Source: Environment Agency
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