The 2025 English Interclub Surfing Championships, set to take place in Porthtowan, Cornwall, were abruptly canceled on Saturday due to a sewage discharge. Over 140 competitors from across the country were in the water when lifeguards issued a red flag, prompting organizers to immediately halt the event for safety reasons.
Event Disruption and Organizers’ Response
Surfing England expressed devastation at the early end to the competition, especially given the excellent 3-5 foot waves that provided ideal conditions. "We were devastated to end the event early, especially with clean three-to-five-foot waves providing perfect competition conditions and with such a high standard of surfing on display from the clubs," stated Surfing England on Instagram. Operations manager Hannah Brand emphasized the need for urgent government action on water pollution, noting that the cancellation highlights the critical importance of ensuring clean and safe waters for all.
South West Water’s Explanation
A spokesperson for South West Water (SWW) explained that their storm overflow at Porthtowan activated in line with permits following heavy rainfall in the area. They added that SWW is investing £3.2 billion to reduce storm overflows across the region.
Concerns Over Water Quality and Transparency
This incident has reignited long-standing concerns about water quality in England, with criticism directed at water companies since their privatization in 1989 for dumping raw sewage. Rob Abrams, campaign manager for Surfers Against Sewage, highlighted the serious health risks associated with sewage, including gastroenteritis and respiratory issues, and questioned whether the rainfall on the day justified the discharge. He called for greater transparency from SWW, suggesting that "a little bit of rain" might be used to justify sewage discharges.
Calls for Regulatory Action and Investment
Ben Powis, chief executive at Surfing England, conveyed a "real sense of deep frustration" and called for regulators to push harder and for water companies to invest more in facilities to manage water flow. While SWW stated that storm overflows are only used when absolutely necessary and that they are undertaking a significant investment program, they acknowledged that "change on this scale takes time."
The Environment Agency confirmed an officer was present and is investigating the discharge. A Defra spokesperson stated the government is implementing measures to clean up waterways, including blocking unfair bonuses for water executives and rebuilding sewage pipes. However, concerns remain that such incidents harm the region’s reputation and local economies that rely on tourism and events.
Sources
- English Surf Competition Canceled Due to Sewage Discharge, The Inertia.
- Cancelling Cornish surf contest due to sewage ‘a first’, BBC.
