Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth is once again flying an iconic Blue Flag after retaining the accolade which sends the message that it is a clean, safe beach to locals and visitors from around the world.

In addition to the Blue Flag, awarded by Keep Britain Tidy, Gyllyngvase has also secured a Seaside Award with both being welcomed by Falmouth Town Council, town manager, Richard Gates and Falmouth BID (Business Improvement District).

The town's mayor, Grenville Chappel, said: "It is great news that Gylly has been awarded Blue Flag status for 2016. Achieving this important benchmark is vital for tourism both within the UK and internationally and the work that everybody has undertaken including the support from Sharp's really pays off.”

Sharp's Brewery has funded the Blue Flag and Seaside Award applications again this year. James Nicholls, its senior brand manager, said: "We are delighted to have raised over £16,000 in 2015 through sales of our limited release beers. In 2016 we are extremely proud to be supporting the coastal community again, helping these beautiful beaches obtain and retain the prestigious Blue Flag status that they so highly deserve.

"The Blue Flag initiative does a fantastic job of supporting beaches and communities in coastal areas, and we are pleased to be supporting the charity again within our heartland of Cornwall."

During May and June, five pence from every pint of Sea Mist sold will be donated to the funding the initiative, with the sale of the other limited edition beers to follow throughout the summer and into the autumn and winter.

This year, 5p from every pint of the award winning Sharp’s limited edition beers: Rising Tide, Sea Mist, Point Break, Perfect storm and Doom Bar Reserve, will be contributed to the prestigious initiative,

Thanks to the funding from Sharp’s Brewery, the iconic Blue Flags will fly over Gyllyngvase in Falmouth; Porthminster and Porthmeor in St Ives,