Water quality at 24 beaches has been rated 'good' and eight  'fair', while Ma Wan Tung Wan Beach is 'very poor', according to the Environmental Protection Department.

Compared with last week's gradings, Cheung Chau Tung Wan, Golden Beach and Discovery Bay have been lowered to 'fair' and Ma Wan Tung Wan Beach have lowered to 'very poor'.

At Ma Wan Tung Wan Beach, heavy rain flushed pollutants from the beach hinterland into the water.

Beaches are likely to be more polluted than their grades suggest during and after periods of heavy rain, so bathers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after a storm or heavy rainfall.

Seven beaches - Anglers', Approach, Ting Kau, Casam, Gemini, Hoi Mei Wan and Lido - are closed to swimmers year round because of poor water quality. The public is advised not to swim at these closed beaches.

For the latest beach water quality gradings, click here or call or the beach hotline, 2511 6666.