Cromer's landmark pier helps to make it a popular resort

The beach was awarded the accolade for cleanliness and visitor facilities for the first time in 2004, but has failed to retain the flag.

But Jubilee Beach in Southend, which was built in 2002, has received the award for the first time.

A total of 14 beaches across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex have been awarded the flag, the same number as last year.

Environmental Campaigns (Encams) awards the Blue Flag to beaches which pass a strict water quality test set down in European law.

'Element of snobbery'

Flag winners in Essex are Brightlingsea, Dovercourt Bay, Southend Shoebury Common and Southend Shoeburyness East and Jubilee beach.

Norfolk beaches which will be flying the flag are Cromer, Gorleston, Mundesley, Sea Palling and Sheringham.

Suffolk's Blue Flag winners are Felixstowe, Lowestoft North of the Pier, Lowestoft South of the Pier and Southwold Pier.

Encams regional director Nigel Tansley-Thoma said: "There has been a real element of snobbery surrounding our beaches, with some people suggesting they simply don't match up to their continental counterparts.

"Yet this kiss-me-quick view belongs in the past. Many of our resorts now offer fantastic facilities and a wide range of attractions and activities for everyone to enjoy."

Encams, which awarded the flag to 119 beaches across the country this year, said the state of the country's beaches had improved dramatically since Britain entered the awards scheme in 1987.