Six of eight beaches open to swimmers have been rated 'good' for this weekend, while the other two are rated 'fair'.The eight beaches are equipped with shark nets while other beaches were closed for swimming from November 1 for the winter season.

Six beaches rated as 'good' are: 

* Clear Water Bay Second Beach;

* Deep Water Bay Beach;

* Golden Beach;

* Middle Bay Beach;

* Repulse Bay Beach; and

* Stanley Main Beach.

The two 'fair' beaches are Big Wave Bay Beach and Silverstrand Beach.

Compared with the grading released last week, Golden Beach was upgraded while Silverstrand Beach was downgraded. The changes are generally within the normal range of fluctuation of the bacteriological water quality of the beaches.

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.

For updates on beach water quality, see the Environmental Protection Department's website, or call the beach hotline, 2511 6666.