MILLPORT'S Newton Beach is the only one in North Ayrshire to receive a top rating from watchdogs.

Millport Bay was rated as excellent, while Largs Bay was assessed as 'good' in the official Scottish Environmental Protection Agency review, along with Seamill.

A small number beaches in Ayrshire, including Ayr, received a 'poor' classification, while some others only received 'sufficient'.

From keeping sand litter free to providing excellent information and access, Millport's Newton beach has been heralded as one of the best managed beaches in the country over recent years by the Keep Scotland Beautiful campaign, and has proudly been flying the Rural Seaside Award flag in recent years.

Cumbrae's' cludgie cleaner' Suki McGregor says she is delighted that Newton Beach has been recognised again for its excellent bathing waters.

Suki, who has been an internet sensation with her 'bog vlogs' as she cleans the local loos on the island, and spruces them up with flowers, soap and even poetry, believes the beach rating is great news.

She added: " I have never seen so many people in the beach swimming as one recent Sunday afternoon during the good weather.

"It is amazing that our beach bathing waters has received excellent status from SEPA.

"Long may it continue."

Members of the public have been urged to play their part in keeping beaches clean.

Suki said: "Over last weekend, we have had two blockages and one burst pipe because of sanitary products, so it is still important to educate people about the do's and don'ts of what you can flush.

Terry A’Hearn of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, said: “Every day SEPA works to protect and enhance Scotland’s stunning environment and we are committed to ensuring all of Scotland’s designated bathing waters meet water quality standards.

“Having achieved the highest rate of compliance since the new Bathing Water Directive began we are already seeing many of our priority projects having a positive impact."

A Scottish Water spokeswoman said: “We are pleased to see the continued improvement in bathing water performance. Scottish Water has undertaken significant investment in partnership with SEPA in recent years to support bathing water quality."

Water quality data is available by 10am every day during the season for all the designated bathing water locations, including Largs, Millport, and Seamill, on www.bathingwaters.mobi