We always knew that Firestone Bay was something special – and now it’s official.

This stunning slice of coast has been officially designated by the Government as a bathing water site, following a campaign led by Luke Pollard MP and backed by the passionate wild swimming, SUP and coastal community that took part in a recent public consultation.

The Department For Environment and Rural Affairs says the bay at Royal William Yard will officially gain its new status in May, right in time for the summer when locals and visitors alike relish the chance for a dip in the sea and Devil's Point tidal pool.

Bathing water status means the water will be regularly monitored by the Environment Agency. Samples will be taken during the bathing season - between 15 May and 30 September – to assess how clean the water is and if any action is ever needed to improve the water quality.

Swimmers and other water users will get up-to-date information on the condition of the water, which provides peace of mind. Officially designated bathing waters assessed as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ soared from 76% to 93% last year thanks to contact checks and robust regulation.

Firestone Bay is one of four wild swimming spots in the UK that have been chosen as official bathing waters ahead of summer. It takes the total number of designated bathing waters across the country to 424, the highest on record.