Sussex beaches: People advised not to swim after sewage releases

A release last week at Bexhill beach was caused by a pumping station power failure

People are being advised not to swim at six beaches in Sussex after sewage was released into the sea.

The Environment Agency issued the alert as it blamed the problem on heavy rain during overnight storms.

Rainfall can overwhelm pipes, and in such cases water companies are allowed to discharge raw sewage into rivers and the sea to protect homes.

This pollution is "short term" and not expected to last more than 72 hours, the agency said.

The Environment Agency noted a number of pollution incidents following the recent storms

The beaches affected include Hastings, Pelham Beach, Bexhill, Lancing, Worthing, Bognor Regis and Felpham.

In August campaigners gathered in St Leonards calling for government action to stop beaches being polluted by sewage following a number of incidents over the summer.

A Southern Water spokeswoman said: "Rain can overwhelm the combined sewer and drainage system which exists in many parts of our region.

"To protect homes, schools and businesses from flooding, storm overflows act as a release value and release excess water into the sea.

"These discharges are heavily diluted, typically being 95% rainwater."

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