A family vacation in Cornwall was disrupted when a swimmer and her daughter became ill shortly after swimming in St. Mawes harbour. The incident occurred despite signage warning of a recent sewage spill having been removed.
The swimmer, identified as Bryony Gordon, reported that the sickness began in the early morning hours after a day spent at various beaches on the south coast. She and her daughter had swum in the harbour area of St. Mawes, noting the water appeared murkier near the boats and ferry route. While they had previously swum in the area without issue, the experience was followed by severe nausea and vomiting for both.
Gordon later discovered through a local news report that a burst pipe in the village car park had discharged raw sewage into the harbour for an estimated two to five hours just days before their swim. The Environment Agency had reportedly posted warnings for 48 hours, but these were no longer in place by the time the family swam.
Water Quality Concerns in Cornwall
While Gordon's friend was able to obtain information at a local pharmacy, a notice confirmed the spill had been dealt with by South West Water. However, it also stated that individuals entered the water at their own risk. The Surfers Against Sewage app, which monitors water quality alerts, did not flag this particular incident, as it does not cover less frequently used beaches like those in St. Mawes.
The article notes that sewage overflows have been reported in other Cornish locations, including Readymoney Cove in Fowey and Falmouth. Locals have expressed frustration, with some noting a worsening situation annually. The report highlights the contradiction of water companies like South West Water imposing hosepipe bans due to drought conditions while simultaneously discharging sewage into coastal waters.
The incident has reignited debate surrounding the regulation and accountability of water companies. The article references a statement from Andy Burnham, who has previously criticized water companies for treating customers as a "bottomless source of funding" and proposed blocking surge pricing during droughts. The author expresses anger that the water companies are not only accused of profiting despite alleged failings but also potentially endangering public health.