SEVERAL seaside resorts along the Sussex coastline have been condemned by a leading action group over the amount of sewage being dumped in the sea.
Surfers Against Sewage has released the shocking figures and is demanding action to curb the practice, which can have a devastating effect on our maritime wildlife, especially with seals and dolphins regularly spotted in the sea off Sussex shores.
The marine conservation charity has urged swimmers to take note of the warnings as Britons approach the spring and summer seasons.
It monitors the water quality across the United Kingdom to keep the public informed of any areas affected by sewage and it does not make good reading for those living in Sussex or for visitors who tend to make a day at the seaside a priority during the warmer months.
Tourist favourite Brighton is among those being criticised but it is by no means the only popular Sussex destination to be identified. Far from it, in fact.
Sewage discharges have led to the UK being placed at the bottom of the list in Europe in terms of the quality of its bathing water.
In total, 83 beaches have been identified as ones to avoid due to sewage being dumped by various water companies operating across the nation.
Coming in at 35th on the list is St Leonards while following close behind is Bexhill, just one place lower.
And it doesn’t get any better, unfortunately. Next up is Normans Bay between Bexhill and Eastbourne in 37th spot, followed by Pevensey Bay in 38th place and Seaford 39th.
Think it can’t get any worse for Sussex? Well yes it can.
Saltdean near Brighton is 40th on the list with Brighton Kemptown 41st. Next up is Brighton Central and then Hove Lawns.
Littlehampton is in 44th place on the list, with Bognor Regis East in 45th place and Bognor Regis (Aldwick), just one spot lower.
Pagham, in the Arun district of West Sussex comes in at 47th, rounding off a dismal picture for our county as the tourist season rapidly approaches.
