Wild swimmers awarded for work to improve river

The Manningtree Mermaids were recognised for the "selfless hard work and dedication of incredible volunteers"

Swimmers who secured designated bathing water status at a beach have been awarded for their campaigning efforts.

Manningtree beach in Essex was named among 27 new sites in England by the Environment Agency (EA) in May.

It followed extensive lobbying by the Manningtree Mermaids, who have now been named winners of the David Wood National Landscape Award for 2024.

"It is really brilliant news," said Helen Whitehead, from the wild swimming group.

"Manningtree beach is really popular, it's the heart of our town."

The group launched a bid for bathing status when swimmers fell ill after being in the water

The award is presented to those who have made an outstanding contribution to the Suffolk & Essex Coast and Heaths National Landscape, formerly known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Mermaids swim regularly in the Stour Estuary and membership has grown to more than 150 people.

Members launched the SWIM campaign in February 2023, which called for Manningtree beach to get designated bathing water status.

After engaging with Anglian Water and undertaking wide public consultation, the beach was awarded the status in May.

It meant the EA would monitor the water quality on a weekly basis between May and September, over a five-year period.

Manningtree beach, on the River Stour estuary, is affected by three sewer storm overflows

Ms Whitehead said the recognition was an "amazing" moment.

"It was a real vindication of all the work we'd done. It reflected what an amazing community Manningtree is because so many people supported us," she said.

'Incredible volunteers'

The group was not aware it had been nominated for an award, Ms Whitehead added.

"It makes it really worthwhile. Someone has noticed all the hours we put in and it's so lovely to be recognised for that."

Nick Collinson, chairman of the region's National Landscape group, said the Mermaids' work would have a "long-term, positive impact" on the estuary.

He said the award recognised the "selfless hard work and dedication of incredible volunteers".

"The Manningtree Mermaids have brought together a community to enjoy swimming and spending time outdoors," Mr Collinson added.