Political opinion with Tom Rutland MP: Citizen science water testing begins in East Worthing

Our community turned out in huge numbers across Adur and Worthing to mark Remembrance Sunday. I joined services in Shoreham and Lancing and was glad to see so many paying tribute to the fallen who gave their lives for our country and our freedom. We will remember them. 

In the constituency, I had meetings with constituents in Lancing, saw the bikeability scheme in action at St Nics and St Mary's school, visited Whytemead Primary School to talk with Year 6 about water quality, and attended the Adur & Worthing Business Awards. 

I am delighted that year-round citizen science water testing has begun in East Worthing to test water across our area. It was great to join the very first test with East Worthing’s Muscle Beach Swimming Club recently. The idea came about when I saw testing taking place in Brighton last year, so I’m glad we’ve successfully worked to bring it here. 

Sea water quality is a priority for me: there is no issue I have raised more in Westminster. I was pleased that on this occasion the result was excellent, at 163 (the Environment Agency classifies E-coli ratings of ≤500 cfu/100ml as good and ≤250 as excellent).  

I am very grateful to local sea swimming groups, Councillors Vicki Wells and Martin McCabe and Worthing Borough Council for their collaborative work to make this happen. It will allow us to hold Southern Water to account with year-round testing conducted by trained local sea swimmers. 

The Prime Minister has committed to greater public control of water through our Clean Water Bill and pledged to scrap the Thatcher era ban on public ownership of water companies.  

Thanks to South Downs Leisure for providing space for testing, to Southern Water for funding the reagent and equipment, and to the swimmers doing the testing!