River Swimmers Fall Ill After Swimming in Popular Spot

A significant number of swimmers have fallen ill after recent visits to Farleigh Hungerford, a popular bathing location on the River Frome near Bath. Reports indicate that at least 16 people experienced symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea following their swims over the past weekend. The Farleigh and District Swimming Club, which operates the site, had previously assessed the water quality as low risk.

One swimmer, Eleanor Warrington, described how 14 people in her group, including her two teenage daughters, became severely unwell. Another visitor, Harriet Symon, reported that her three children also fell ill after swimming in the river. These incidents have caused distress and concern for locals and visitors alike, with some questioning the drastic decline in water quality.

Amidst the illnesses, Wessex Water is investigating a storm overflow located upstream of Farleigh Hungerford. Storm overflows are designed to release wastewater into rivers during heavy rainfall to prevent flooding. The company stated that the overflow operated as designed following thunderstorms on June 23rd. The Farleigh and District Swimming Club had also issued a warning about potentially poor water quality on the same day due to heavy rain.

The Environment Agency currently classifies Farleigh Hungerford's bathing water quality as 'poor.' They advise swimmers to check their Swimfo website for informed decisions. To further assist swimmers, Wessex Water has installed AI monitoring equipment to provide near real-time water quality data.