Coastal gems for serene swims of fun family days

WHEN the sun shines in the North East, there really is nothing better than heading out for a refreshing swim or paddle.

- Jamie Fletcher

If you're planning a local dip over the summer, you'll be glad to know that several of our water bodies have earned the coveted "excellent" rating under the Environment Agency's annual bathing water classifications.

From mid-May to late September, our officers carry out a rigorous testing programme of designated bathing waters—which plays a vital role in protecting public health and tracking pollution trends.

Each week, they visit designated coastal and inland bathing sites to collect water samples using sterilised bottles. The samples are stored in cool conditions and transported promptly to our laboratory, where they are tested for bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and intestinal enterococci - key indicators of faecal contamination.