SOUTHEND’S loos are top notch – and that’s official.

Public conveniences in Bell Wharf, Leigh, won platinum status – the highest possible accolade – at the Loo of the Year 2013 awards bash.

Southend Council also picked up seven gold status awards for its public toilets in Chalkwell Park, Crowstone, Sutherland Boulevard, Hamlet Court Road, Marine Parade, Pitman’s Close and Elm Road.

The gongs means the council will be entered into the 2013 Local Authority Public Toilet Premier League.

Tony Cox, councillor responsible for public protection, waste and transport, said it’s good news for the town.

He said: “It’s really important to provide top quality toilets for our residents and visitors, so this is a really great result and pays testament to our hard working contractors, Cory Environmental.”

Every winning public toilet received an unannounced visit from an authorised Loo of the Year Awards inspector and was assessed against 100 judging criteria, including signage and décor, fixtures and fittings and overall standards of cleanliness and management.

Each facility then received a grade ranging from bronze to platinum.

The Loo of the Year Awards have been identifying the best in Britain since 1987 and are recognised as standard setters for organisations providing “away from home” facilities for staff, customers and visitors.