A Merseyside beach is not only a "beautiful place" but has a "brilliant time capsule" as people travel from afar to visit.
The ECHO previously reported that West Kirby beach had been ranked in the UK's top ten, in a list compiled by property letting business holidaycottages.co.uk. The company collated data on more than 550 beaches across the country, assessing various criteria including: the availability of parking, toilets, lifeguards, cafes, water quality, accessibility, water sports available and whether the beach is dog-friendly.
West Kirby was the only beach in Merseyside to make the cut, after last year being named as the 12th best coastal beauty spot in the country by the Times. But speaking to BBC Radio Merseyside last month, coastal ranger Matt Thomas spoke about just exactly what it is that makes the coast so special.
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West Kirby on the Wirral is no doubt known for its beautiful sandy beaches, popular walks to nearby Hilbre island and watersports, as well as being a popular place to shop, eat and live. But it has a rich history as the town's promenade was built during the Victorian era, with the beach having long been popular with tourists and renowned in times past for its donkey rides.
From the regular and reoccurring wildlife and the deep historical value, Matt told BBC Radio Merseyside: "It's hard to put a finger on just one thing that makes it so special. It's a beautiful place, easy to get to as well, really close to big cities.
"We have lots of visitors from Liverpool and Manchester as well as local people. It's really easy to access, it's a beautiful beach and a great place to connect with wildlife."
Matt added during the height of summer the beach will be "absolutely chocker" but that there was something there "all-year-round" with wildlife such as Purple Sandpipers that "keep coming back, even in the teeth of a howling gale".
But as well as attracting wildlife, the historical Hilbre island, just an hour's walk at low tide, attracts thousands of visitors every year. Matt went on to say: "We are so lucky to have a tidal island right on our doorstep. There's only a handful across the whole country and we've got one you can access from West Kirby beach. It is safe to do so as long as you know the tide times."
The coastal ranger of 20 years told the radio host that it was a "beautiful, beautiful place" and was a "brilliant time capsule". However he re-iterated the message that we could all do "very small things that can make a difference" to protect the popular coastal area, including taking rubbish home.
The top ten beaches scored highly in every category, making them a fantastic place to enjoy a summer beach day. West Kirby was up there with popular beaches in the UK, including Cornwall and Wales.
Reacting to the accolade, David Rawlinson, chair of community interest company, One West Kirby, previously told the ECHO : "We're so happy to see West Kirby beach named as one of the best in the UK. We agree wholeheartedly, but then we may be a little biased.
"It's a wonderful beach for families to enjoy, for dog walkers, for watersports and wildlife enthusiasts and, of course, the jewel in our crown - walking out to stunning Hilbre Island at low tide to spot seals
"We'd encourage people to visit our award-winning beach and then stay on for a look around all the fabulous independent shops and fantastic restaurants, bars and cafes on our high street.
"We're also delighted the local council has recently announced the raking to clean the beach, which had been suspended during covid and was awaiting approval, will be starting again shortly, just in time for our summer visitors".
Let us know what you love about West Kirkby beach in the comments.
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