Sewage leaking into the sea is suspected of making members of a Swansea swimming group ill, according to Wales Online. The Gower Open Water Swim Training group, which uses Langland Bay, has had to cancel some sessions due to storm sewer overflow activations. The group, consisting of 120 members aged 20 to 70, faces issues with stomach complaints after swimming in Langland Bay.
Howard Middleton-Jones, the coordinator and coach of the group, explained that despite taking precautions based on published information about sewer storm overflow activations, members were still falling ill. He highlighted a storm overflow near Knab Rock that affects Bracelet, Limeslade, and Langland bays, which operated for seven hours on August 13.
Middleton-Jones emphasised the importance of caution, especially for swimmers with underlying conditions and low immunity, advising against swimming for 72 hours after a discharge. The group’s popularity has increased during the pandemic, providing both physical and psychological benefits for members. Sessions are free, and anyone interested in joining can email [email protected] or visit the Facebook page.
Middleton-Jones stressed the need for caution and shared how the open water swimming sessions offer various health benefits, particularly during the pandemic. He highlighted the positive impact on mental health and overall well-being experienced by many members.