SEWAGE has been discharged at a Dorset beach as a result of heavy rain.

Surfers against Sewage reported that storm sewage had been discharged from a sewer overflow at Shore Road, near Sandbanks Beach, within the past 48 hours.

A Wessex Water spokesperson said: “Our licensed storm overflow operated automatically, releasing mostly rainwater into the sea to protect properties from flooding.

 “Despite their minimal environmental impact, overflows are outdated. So we’re investing £3 million every month to help reduce how often they operate and we’re planning to invest significantly more between 2025 and 2030, subject to regulatory approval.”

Adding:  “We’re also in the process of upgrading Bournemouth’s Holdenhurst Water Recycling Centre at a cost of more than £30 million, increasing sewage treatment capacity to help further protect the area’s excellent beaches.”