'Big Dip' going ahead on land, as it highlights ongoing water pollution
The event is now in its third year
Last updated 22 hours ago
The Big Dip, a free community event, returns today in Exmouth - despite warnings about not entering the water.
The 'dip' - which includes land-based activities, is now in its third year and is hosted by Sideshore Community Interest Company, Sea Swim Devon and Exmouth Beach Rescue Club from 1030am.
The organisers of the bi-annual community dip say it’s 'more important than ever' to celebrate our coastline as the sea at Exmouth has been off-limits to swimmers at times.
The Big Dip's organisers say it is 'for all water users and the wider community to come together in recognition of how valuable clean seas are, now, and for future generations'.
It comes as people and pets are being told to still stay out of the water at Exmouth beach and nearby swimming spots after the pollution incident in Littleham Brook.
The Environment Agency says sandbags have been put in place to contain the polluted area while a clean up is planned.
A criminal investigation is now underway, though the Environment Agency says it can confirm the pollution was not caused by sewage.
Bernie Rhodes, activity and project manager at Sideshore, said: “For many people access to the sea is intrinsically linked to their physical and mental wellbeing, friendships, and sense of community.
"Recent events have reminded us just how precious this resource and natural playground is, and how it’s more important than ever to protect our coastline and celebrate our seas.
"People are encouraged to attend even if the water is still off-limits on Sunday. In addition to land-based community activities and refreshments by Heydays, there will be an update on a legal claim brought against South West Water and the Pennon Group in relation to allegations that the companies are responsible for sewage pollution.
Represented by law firm, Leigh Day, Exmouth sea swimmer Jo Bateman initiated the legal action on behalf of residents in Exmouth, Lympstone and Budleigh Salterton in 2024. The claim has since expanded to include multiple coastal communities across Devon and Cornwall."
Nicky Nicholls, Community and Innovation Lead at Sideshore, added: “We are angry that our most precious and beautiful natural resource is used as a dumping ground, while South West Water continues to make a huge profit.
"The Big Dip is a chance to come together as a community, to share our frustration, demand action and continue to fight for clean water.”
There's more about the ongoing pollution legeal challenge and South West Water's response here