Thousands Take Part in Paddle-Out Protests – Seaton Beach Among 43 Sites Demanding an End to Sewage Pollution

“We want clean seas” – campaigners paddle out at Seaton and beyond

Seaton Beach was one of 43 locations across the UK where campaigners paddled into the water over the weekend to demand urgent action to stop sewage pollution.

Thousands of swimmers, surfers and paddleboarders joined in from beaches in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, sending a united message to Government: #EndSewagePollution NOW.

The coordinated protests, organised by Surfers Against Sewage and supported by local action groups, come at a time of growing public anger over sewage spills and a lack of trust in water companies.

At Seaton, a group of local activists entered the water carrying signs and banners, joining the national movement with their own powerful visual demonstration. The paddle-outs were designed to symbolise how important clean water is to communities and to call for better regulation and accountability.

Public trust at rock bottom

The action comes as new polling by Opinium reveals deep concern among the public about the future of our bathing waters. Fewer than one in five people believe they’ll be able to swim safely at their local spot by 2030 without risking their health due to sewage pollution.

Only 21% of respondents said they trusted the Government to make sure water suppliers take meaningful steps to reduce sewage discharges.

This follows data from the Environment Agency showing more than 500,000 discharges of raw sewage into UK waters in 2024 so far – a record figure. In March, it was confirmed that last year saw the highest level of sewage pollution on record.

What happens next?

The Independent Water Commission is currently reviewing all the evidence. Their findings will inform recommendations on how to reform the water industry – and campaigners hope these paddle-outs have sent a clear message.

A spokesperson for the campaign said: “People are fed up. We shouldn’t have to think twice about getting in the sea because of what’s being dumped into it. These paddle-outs show the strength of feeling across the UK.”

Photos and videos from Seaton show passionate local campaigners joining forces with thousands nationwide, demanding a cleaner future for our rivers and seas.