Multiple beaches across BCP have been issued pollution alerts following heavy rainfall.

Surfers Against Sewage have warned that storm sewage discharges from sewer overflows have contaminated several coastal areas in Dorset.

Residents and visitors are advised to avoid swimming in the waters around Poole Harbour at Shore Road, Shore Road Beach, Bournemouth Beach, Hengistbury Head, Avon Beach, and Friars Cliff.

SAS said that pollution risk warnings are issued by the Environment Agency, which assesses the risk of water quality based on rainfall and other factors.

Surfers Against Sewage stated that when a pollution risk forecast is made, the public is urged to avoid bathing due to likely deterioration in water quality.

Wessex Water told the Daily Echo that its licensed storm overflows operate automatically, discharging mostly rainwater to prevent flooding.

The company said it is currently upgrading Bournemouth’s Holdenhurst Water Recycling Centre, a £30 million project aimed at increasing sewage treatment capacity to protect local beaches.