Anger as Environment Agency executive takes job at Southern Water

Critics say move an example of cosy relationship' between industry and regulator

One of the most senior executives at the Environment Agency is leaving to join a water company that is under criminal investigation by the watchdog.

The departure of Dr Toby Willison, the director of operations for the EA, to take up a role at Southern Water has angered campaigners seeking to reduce pollution in rivers and coastal waters. Willison has previously been the acting chief executive of the environmental watchdog.