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UK Swimming Waters Five Times More Polluted Than EU

8/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

English swimming waters are alarmingly five times more polluted than those in the EU, with 8.4% deemed poor. Campaigners fear the UK could earn the title of the "dirty man of Europe." Wild swimmer Kim Hilton's illness after a dip in contaminated waters underscores the urgent threat pollution poses to public health and the joy of enjoying nature.

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Story summary

English swimming waters are alarmingly five times more polluted than those in the EU, with 8.4% deemed poor. Campaigners fear the UK could earn the title of the "dirty man of Europe." Wild swimmer Kim Hilton's illness after a dip in contaminated waters underscores the urgent threat pollution poses to public health and the joy of enjoying nature.