"LOSS OF BLUE FLAG SHOULDN'T BE DETERRENT TO ENJOYING ELIE BEACH" - SMITH

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sun 23rd Aug 2009

Iain Smith MSP windsurfing at Elie

Local MSP Iain Smith was at Elie Watersports for a windsurfing lesson and to show that despite the loss of the harbour beach's blue flag the water is perfectly clean and people should not be deterred from enjoying a day in the water.

On day two of his tour of the East Neuk section of the Fife Coastal Path, Mr Smith met with Angus Meldrum who owns Elie Watersports to discuss how business has been this year and what effect the loss of the Blue Flag means to his business.

Iain Smith said:

"The loss of the blue flag really shouldn't be a deterrent to people enjoying the wonderful activities on offer at Elie Watersports or just a day at the beach."

Owner of Elie Watersports Angus Meldrum says business is as positive as ever despite the current economic climate.

Mr Meldrum said:

"Unfortunately Elie harbour beach lost its blue flag beach status due to a minor blip in the water quality but I do not think this will impact adversely on Elie Watersports or tourism in general. Elie beach is still one of the best in the country and has a well equipped watersports centre providing safe professional activities."