Shareholders are paid billions but sewage still flows into our waters

On the River Nidd, as it flows through the Yorkshire town of Knaresborough, there is a large natural pool between two weirs that has been a popular spot for wild bathers for many years. Because of pollution, however, the water is sometimes not even fit for dogs to swim in.

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I know that because, while filming there for a Countryfile episode to be shown in August, I consulted a new interactive information board along the bank. It's part of a project led by the Environment Agency and uses QR-code technology to collect evidence from local observers about the state of the river, as well as giving advice. When I punched in a question about dogs, the reply came back: “Due to high levels of e-coli, chemical pollutants and ongoing sewage spills, it's best to keep your dog away from the water to ensure their safety.”

So even though the pool was granted Dedicated Bathing Water Status last year by DEFRA, it can pose health risks - for example, the e-coli bug causes vomiting and diarrhoea - to both people and animals who go for a dip. At the time of press, the quality was classed as 'poor' - there are outfalls nearby - and, with swimmers still using the pool, campaigners are urging Yorkshire Water to make it safe.