Fun in the sun: Water quality at 20 beaches has been rated 'good' for this weekend, with 12 more in 'fair' condition.

Water quality at 20 beaches has been rated 'good' for this weekend, with 12 more in 'fair' condition.

Clear Water Bay First Beach had been upgraded from fair to good, while Middle Bay, Repulse Bay and Clear Water Bay Second beaches have changed from good to fair.

The changes are generally within the normal range of fluctuation of the bacteriological water quality of the beach.

Beach grades may also be obtained from the Environmental Protection Department's homepage or the beach hotline, 2511 6666.

Seven gazetted beaches - Anglers', Approach, Ting Kau, Casam, Gemini, Hoi Mei Wan and Lido - are closed to swimmers year round because of poor water quality.

People are advised not to swim at these closed beaches.

Many beaches were likely to be more polluted than their grades suggest during and after periods of heavy rain. Bathers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after a storm or heavy rainfall.