UK beach water quality boosted by dry weather

LONDON, Aug 26 (Reuters) Dry weather in June and July has led to ''excellent'' water quality at the majority of Britain's beaches, the Marine Conservation Society said today.

Only two beaches failed the minimum European standard for cleanliness, while 93 per cent of the 520 bathing sites surveyed received top marks.

''The exceptionally hot and dry weather in many parts of the UK during June and July saw relatively little storm pollution enter the sea,'' the MCS said.

Unsettled weather in Scotland meant only 65 per cent of beaches there were rated as excellent.

The MCS, publishers of the annual Good Beach Guide, took water quality samples between May and June from beaches in England and Wales.

Beaches in Scotland and Northern Ireland were checked during June and early August.

REUTERS DRA KP1531