Sand standards

THE desire of hard-pressed Britons to holiday in Yorkshire has presented one of the few bright spots for this region's economy over the last two years. Central to this have been the experiences on offer in picturesque resorts, so our beaches must be protected and preserved if the wealth generated by our great natural assets is not to be lost.

Therefore the condition of beaches in Staithes and Saltburn, both judged to be two of the country's dirtiest, is alarming. The Government survey which highlighted the problems should prompt quick action. A filthy beach means damage done to a town's reputation, its environment and its natural habitat, which will take years to reverse.

Staithes and Saltburn have other problems to tackle, such as the fear they could miss out on funding from a 110m beach transformation programme announced earlier this month.

Local politicians and the Environment Agency must get-together to hasten the clean-up in these areas. Yorkshire should be known for its scenery, rather than its sewage.