By Village Race
In an unfortunate turn of events, the annual open-water swimming race in Lynmouth, Devon, has been abruptly canceled due to the alarming discharge of raw sewage into the picturesque local harbour. This unexpected incident has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving organizers and participants devastated. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the details surrounding the cancellation of the Richie Berry Cup Swimming race, the concerns raised by organizers and swimmers, and the response from South West Water (SWW).
The Richie Berry Cup Swimming Race
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The Richie Berry Cup Swimming race is an eagerly anticipated annual event that typically takes place in Lynmouth, a charming coastal village nestled along the north Devon coast. Swimmers from near and far gather to participate in this open-water race, celebrating the beauty of Lynmouth’s natural harbor. The event, originally scheduled for September 3, has been a long-standing tradition, attracting both competitive swimmers and enthusiasts alike.
A Sudden Turn of Events
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The excitement and anticipation leading up to this year’s Richie Berry Cup Swimming race were abruptly shattered when sewage discharge occurred in Lynmouth’s harbor. The release of raw sewage from a South West Water (SWW) facility cast a dark cloud over the event. As a result, the race organizers were faced with a difficult decision – to proceed with the event despite the contaminated water or prioritize the safety and well-being of the participants.
John Arbon, the race organizer, expressed the dilemma they faced: “We stood there and thought, ‘What if someone gets sick?’ We couldn’t take that risk.” The health and safety of the swimmers were paramount, and the potential health hazards posed by swimming in sewage-contaminated waters were simply too great to ignore.
Lack of Information and Concerns
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One of the primary concerns voiced by the event organizers was the lack of timely information from South West Water regarding the situation. Without accurate and up-to-date data on the quality of the water and the potential for further sewage discharges, making an informed decision about whether to proceed with the race became an impossible task.
Adding to the challenges, the wind direction during this unfortunate incident was blowing the sea directly onto the harbor, making it exceptionally difficult to clear the sewage from the water. This further compounded the risks associated with swimming in contaminated waters.
The Lynseals Swimming Group’s Apology
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Understanding the disappointment and frustration of the swimmers and participants, the Lynseals swimming group took to Facebook to issue an apology. In their statement, they expressed their regret over the cancellation of the event, emphasizing that the decision was driven by genuine concerns for the well-being of the swimmers.
The Lynseals swimming group, in a commendable move, urged swimmers to take action by contacting their North Devon MP, Selaine Saxby, and filing complaints with South West Water. Their proactive stance underscores the importance of holding accountable those responsible for maintaining the quality of the local environment.
South West Water’s Response
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South West Water, in response to the incident, provided insights into the sewage discharge. According to the data available on SWW’s website, a pumping station overflow in Lynmouth was activated at 5:14 am and stopped at 10:48 am. SWW explained that storm overflows, like the one in Lynmouth, are essential pressure relief valves designed to prevent homes and businesses from flooding during heavy rainfall.
However, South West Water also emphasized their commitment to reducing the use of storm overflows, acknowledging that it is a priority. They are investing record levels to achieve this goal. Specifically, in Lynmouth, they are dedicating over £4.25 million to projects aimed at reducing the risk of environmental impact from their sewerage network while maintaining excellent bathing water quality.
Conclusion
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The cancellation of the Richie Berry Cup Swimming race in Lynmouth due to the discharge of raw sewage is a stark reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and the need for proactive measures to protect our natural habitats. While the cancellation may have disappointed many, the safety and health of the swimmers must always take precedence.
As the community rallies together to address the issues surrounding this unfortunate incident, it is clear that transparency, accountability, and proactive measures are vital in safeguarding the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Lynmouth and similar coastal areas offer.
In the face of adversity, the resilience and determination of the community will undoubtedly ensure that future events like the Richie Berry Cup Swimming race can proceed without the shadow of sewage contamination. As we move forward, let us hope for cleaner waters and safer races for all to enjoy.
