WHITMORE Bay’s bathing water quality has been rated excellent following the latest round of testing by Natural Resources Wales (NRW).

The Barry Island beach has consistently been given the highest classification since stricter bathing water quality standards were applied in Wales in 2015, but last year one anomalous result at odds with other readings saw the water categorised as good.

Vale council director of housing and environment, Miles Punter said: “We are delighted that the latest round of testing has again revealed bathing water at Whitmore Bay to be excellent.

“This further supports the idea that the one rogue reading taken last year which suggested the water was of lesser quality was an anomaly.

“I have always been confident Whitmore Bay conforms to the highest standards and these latest test results support this view.

“I am also extremely pleased that these latest results will allow us to apply for Blue Flag accreditation at Whitmore Bay for the 2020 season.”

Head of operations South Wales Central for NRW, John Hogg said: “This water quality result is great news for all those who live, work and play in and around Barry.

“Making sure Wales’ bathing waters are clean and safe for people and wildlife is an important part of our job.

“It supports the well-being of local communities and investment in the area.”