The Environmental Protection Department has rated water quality at 14 beaches 'good', 18 'fair' and one 'poor' for this weekend.

Compared with last week's grades, St Stephen's Beach has upgraded from fair to good, while Stanley Main Beach has dropped from good to fair.

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

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 should not swim at closed beaches.

Many beaches are likely to be more polluted than their grades suggest during and after heavy rain. Bathers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after heavy rainfall.

For more information check the department's website, or call 2511 6666.