Should you take the plunge? How to tell how clean the sea is
From beach ratings to apps and flags, we take a look at how swimmers can check water quality.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"the system is 'not fit for purpose' as people use beaches all year round."
— Surfers Against Sewage , Activist
All Coverage
From beach ratings to apps and flags, we take a look at how swimmers can check water quality.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
BBC Inside Science
How do you research the impacts of social media on young people?
June 18, 2026 at 04:00 PMTests carried out on seabirds after nurdle spill
Necropsies are being carried out on seabirds to find out the effects of microplastic pollutants.
October 7, 2026 at 05:07 AMHygiene poverty at tipping point, charity warns
The BBC hears people "you would not expect" can no longer afford items to be clean and healthy.
October 8, 2026 at 05:05 AMCreosote found in beach pollution investigation
Restrictions remain in place on Blyth Beach after a pollution incident was reported in August.
October 5, 2026 at 02:26 PMBlue Planet III ventures into darkest depths of ocean
Sir David says the series uncovers marine life that is "even more precious than we ever realised".
October 7, 2026 at 04:07 PMKenya must be 'clean' to be credible, says Wada chief
Wada president Witold Banka says Kenya must strengthen testing, investigations and anti-doping enforcement before hosting the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
October 7, 2026 at 10:42 AM