BRITS heading to Spain are being warned after a beach has been closed following reports of high levels of faecal bacteria in the water.

       A red flag has been raised at the popular beach in Arenal, Alicante today.

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       The popular beach of Arebnal has been closed Credit: Capture Media Agency The City Council of Jávea has ordered the closure of the beach after results of the latest analysis by the Water Control Program of the General Water Directorate indicated the presence of "bacteria of faecal origin."

       The local Police and the Red Cross have been informed and a red flag has been raised.

       Additional analysis by the Department of Beaches is set to be carried out.

       The council said in a statement that as soon as the water is deemed suitable for swimming the beach will reopen.

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       According to local media, the beach closed last July for the exact same reason.

       Arenal is a holiday hotspot loved by Brits, who flock to it every year for some days in the sun.

       Another two Spanish beaches remain closed in Benalmádena, in Costa del Sol due to improvement works.

       Those heading to Spain have been urged by Spanish cops to be on their guard against thieves who have come up with a disgusting new way to steal from tourists.

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       Some criminals in Barcelona have taken to spitting on tourists and then offering to clean up their phlegm as a distraction technique.

       Meanwhile holidaymakers have also been warned about a new document they will need for travelling to major cities across Europe.

       Spain, Italy, and Portugal, among others, could refuse Brits entry under new rules from as early as this year.

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       The beach will reopen when experts deem the water suitable for swimming Credit: Capture Media Agency