The Environmental Protection Department has rated 14 beaches as 'good', 18 as 'fair' and one 'poor'.

Compared with the grading released last week, Butterfly Beach, Kiu Tsui Beach, Lower Cheung Sha Beach, Middle Bay Beach, St. Stephen's Beach and Turtle Cove Beach have been changed from 'good' to 'fair'.

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

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

People are advised not to swim at the closed beaches.

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

For updates on your local beach, check the department's website, or call the beach hotline, 2511 6666.