And the Winner is....

South Shields seafront has scooped the coveted Sunday Times Beach of the Year title for 2022.

Sandhaven has beaten off stiff competition from hundreds of beaches across the UK in the annual survey.

Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council said: "We are absolutely delighted to be awarded the prestigious Beach of the Year status. Our natural assets are there for everyone to enjoy and we can sometimes overlook what is right on our doorstep and which sets us apart from other areas.

"Creating beautiful spaces is a huge team effort. The Council works in partnership with local businesses, friends' groups, our residents, and visitors to ensure that the beach and our amenities are of the highest standard possible. I was delighted to see that the Sunday Times recognised our beaches as a true community asset, there for everyone to enjoy."

South Tyneside is a special place to live and visit with beautiful parks and open spaces, great towns and picturesque villages, a stunning riverside and coastline with glorious beaches. As a traditional UK break it showcases friendly hospitality, rich heritage and natural beauty.

As well as its stunning beaches attractions include Souter Lighthouse, the Customs House theatre and art gallery, Jarrow Hall, The Dunes, Ocean Beach Pleasure Park, South Shields Museum and Art Gallery and Arbeia, South Shields Roman Fort - to name just a view.

For further information about visiting South Tyneside, including places to stay and where to go, go to www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk