TWO of the Yorkshire region's best known beaches have failed to measure up to bathing standards - losing their coveted Blue Flag status.

By MAETZIG, Rob BIG blue flags are now flying at three of Taranaki's best-known beaches, telling the world they are among the cleanest on the planet.

By Frank Urquhart and John Ross ONE is a windswept strand, pounded by the rolling waves sweeping in from the stormy Pentland Firth. The other is a recreational beach on the outskirts of a bustling Fife town.