Water quality at 26 beaches has been rated "good" for this weekend, six "fair" and one "poor", according to the Environmental Protection Department's latest grading.

Water quality at Cheung Chau Tung Wan and Silverstrand Beaches had been upgraded from Grade 2 to Grade 1 and Ma Wan Tung Wan Beach from Grade 4 to Grade 3.

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

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

The public is advised not to swim at these closed beaches.

As many beaches are likely to be more polluted than their grades suggested during and after periods of heavy rain, bathers are advised to avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after a storm or heavy rainfall.

More information can be obtained from the department's website or through the hotline, 2511 6666.