PEMBROKESHIRE’S beaches have once again reigned supreme in the latest awards scheme.

The county’s resorts scooped a total of 31 Seaside Awards for 2014, which is more than any other county in Wales.

The awards are split into two categories, resort and rural. A resort beach attracts many visitors and typically provides good facilities such as toilets, access for disabled people, car parks and cafes. The rural awarded beaches tend to be more secluded spots that achieve the ‘mandatory’ EU Bathing Water Directive Standard.

Pembrokeshire resort awards include: Amroth, Broad Haven Central, Coppet Hall, Dale, Lydstep, Newgale, Tenby North, Tenby South, Whitesands, Saundersfoot, and Castle Beach Tenby. The rural awards went to: Abereiddy, Barafundle, Broadhaven South, Caerfai Bay, Cwm yr Eglwys, Freshwater East, Gelliswick, Goodwick Sands, Little Haven, Manorbier, Marloes Sands, Martin’s Haven, Newport North, Nolton Haven, Penally, Poppit West, Sandy Haven, St Brides Haven, West Angle, and Wisemans Bridge.

The Seaside Awards are run by Keep Wales Tidy. They come hot on the tail of the Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards in Wales, which crowned 65 Welsh beaches winners of international coastal awards, ranking them amongst the best in the UK and the world.

Lesley Jones, Keep Wales Tidy chief executive, said: “I am delighted that Wales’s beaches are yet again being celebrated. With so many beautiful venues on our very doorstep, this is the perfect opportunity for Welsh holidaymakers to stay at home, boosting the local economy and tourism industry. We can all play a part in maintaining our beaches and in improving our local environment.”

Alun Davies, Minister for Natural Resources, added: “I am delighted that Wales has scooped so many awards for its coast, ranking Welsh beaches among the best in the world. The array of awards reflects the diversity of our beautiful coastline, which is enjoyed by our communities and the millions of visitors to Welsh beaches each year.”