District’s first ever Surfers Against Sewage protest happening in Newbury next week

A peaceful protest against sewage pollution is being held in Newbury next week.

Eco Friends West Berkshire is hosting the district’s first ever Surfers Against Sewage protest as part of an ongoing nationwide campaign to put pressure on the Government, water companies and regulators to end the amount of human waste polluting local waterways.

The family-friendly protest will take place on the grass by the boat pond in Victoria Park on Saturday, May 17, from 10am to 1pm.

The number of sewage spills into England's lakes, rivers and seas hit a record 464,056 in 2023 – a 54 per cent rise on the previous year.

Co-founder of Thatcham Refillable Jenny Kirby, one of the organisers, explained why the protest is necessary: “This year, we have a unique opportunity to influence a huge change within the water industry.

“Let’s make waves and show that West Berkshire cares about clean water and a healthy future. Bring banners, signs, friends, family and your voice.”

An independent commission in England and Wales is currently finalising recommendations for the Government to reform the water industry.

Register at https://shorturl.at/xJOyO to be counted as part of this national protest.