BLACKPOOL'S three beaches have all passed water quality tests for the first time, according to results published today which reveal England's bathing water to be cleaner than ever before.

More than 95% of coastal bathing waters in England passed the EC Bathing Water Directive's main tests - up from 90% last year.

This is better than the UK figure - 94% of coastal water passed the tests for the 2000 bathing season, compared with 91% in 1999.

In England, 95% of bathing water reached the top level - up from 90% last year.

Figures released today also showed a considerable improvement in the North West of England, particularly along the Fylde coast - where the three Blackpool beaches all passed the quality tests together for the first time.

An additional £600 million will be invested over the next five years.

This is aimed at further improving bathing water quality in England to reach at least 97% by 2005.

Environment Minister Michael Meacher said when the Labour Party Conference returns to the resort for its annual get together in 2002: "We will all be free to bathe there if we wish.

"Maybe I should make a special effort."

Mr Meacher admitted that the last time he took a dip was on holiday in Greece.

"These are very good results, but we still have a long way to go," he added.