UK water firms spilled sewage into sea bathing waters 5,517 times in past year

Report shows raw sewage spillages into coastal swimming waters increased by more than 87% in the last 12 months

Water companies spilled raw sewage into coastal bathing waters used by holidaymakers and families 5,517 times in the last year, an increase of more than 87%, new data reveals.

The discharges via storm overflows hit beaches that are supposed to be the cleanest and safest in England and Wales, used by children, tourists, surfers and swimmers.