beaches

Large numbers of packages containing what the authorities describe as 'very pure cocaine' along with other drugs have been found on beaches along a lengthy strip of France's Atlantic coast over recent weeks, with those found so far estimated to have a potential street value of about 60 million euros.

Reports claim a teenager who died may have been poisoned by hydrogen sulphide, a toxic gas released as the sea lettuce algae decomposes.

City of Nice is latest resort to lift controversial ban on burkinis in line with a national court ruling but two beaches in Corsica still prohibit them.

Swimming was briefly banned at popular beaches in the south of France and the island of Corsica after blue sharks were seen near the shore.