More than 760 beachgoers have reported falling ill after swimming in UK waters this year, according to new data from the marine charity Surfers Against Sewage (SAS). The organisation logged 765 sickness reports across 406 locations nationwide since January, with over 40% of those cases occurring since May 1 as summer heatwaves drove people to the coast.
Record sickness reports amid water quality concerns
The figures mark a record number of complaints for the campaign group, which has long highlighted the impact of sewage discharges on public health. The affected beaches include several Blue Flag sites, a designation awarded for excellent water quality, safety, and environmental management. Tourists and locals alike have reported gastroenteritis, ear infections, and in some cases, hospitalisation after swimming in polluted waters.
Jo Morley, SAS's head of campaigns, accused water companies of "making us sick" after decades of pumping sewage into open waters. She said it was "totally unacceptable that people are getting ill in any case, especially after using bathing water rated as 'excellent'." The charity's data shows that the highest number of reports came from Bournemouth beaches, with 16 people saying they felt unwell after swimming. Croyde Bay in North Devon and Polzeath on Cornwall's north coast each recorded 13 reports, followed by Rest Bay in Porthcawl, Bridgend, Wales, with 12 cases.
Environment Agency findings highlight toxic pollution
The revelations come just days after the Environment Agency published findings showing that almost all of England's lakes, rivers, and coastal waters are contaminated with toxic chemicals. Only 14% of England's surface waters currently meet good ecological health status, according to the agency. The pollution stems from sewage spills, agricultural nutrients running off land, and urban pollutants such as litter, petrol, and garden pesticides.
The agency has urged the public to check the Swimfo website for the latest water quality status before entering any of the 464 designated swimming spots. It warned that some bacteria present in UK rivers, lakes, and seas can cause illness. The issue has sparked growing concern among environmental campaigners, who argue that water companies must invest more in infrastructure to prevent sewage overflows.
Public health impact and calls for action
The SAS data reveals a sharp increase in reports during the spring and summer months, with 322 cases recorded since May 1 alone. Many victims have required time off work, with some needing hospital treatment. The charity is calling on the government to strengthen regulations and hold water companies accountable for the pollution.
In response, the Environment Agency reiterated its commitment to tackling water pollution but stressed that immediate steps are needed to protect swimmers. The agency's findings have intensified the debate over the UK's water quality, with MPs and campaigners demanding urgent action. As the summer continues, experts advise beachgoers to check local water quality alerts and avoid swimming after heavy rainfall, when sewage overflows are more likely.
