Our beautiful beaches are the crown jewels of Sussex. Hundreds of thousands of visitors flock here to experience our famous shingle-peppered seafront every year.

And when the sun is out, a dip in the sea is always on the cards.

But the influx of visitors – and the cash that comes with them – could be under threat if we fail to meet new, tough EU directives on water quality. If our beaches fail the tests it will not look good.

Granted, we have been meeting expectations under the old regime.

But stricter guidelines mean we will have to work extra-hard to ensure our sea water is fit for purpose.

Not only do water companies and local authorities have a part to play, but businesses and residents too.

If you see a crisp packet flying around on the shingle, take a moment to pick it up. If somebody has carelessly left empty cans and bottles of alcohol lying around, put it in a bin.

Small changes could make the world of difference to both the water quality we bathe in and the aesthetics of our seafront.

The new EU rules mean a record number of beaches are at risk of meeting the quality standards this year.

However, here in Sussex, we have the resources and commitment from water companies, councils and local businesses to ensure our county does not fall foul of the regulations.

Water companies themselves have invested heavily across the country, pouring £2bn into direct improvements to bathing water quality since 1990. Together we can protect the crown jewels of Sussex for future generations to come.