The number of pollution incidents recorded by water companies in England is at a ten-year high, according to data obtained by campaigners.
Surfers Against Sewage said the Environment Agency data showed the number of incidents was more than double its target.
Such spills have the potential to cause damage to wildlife and illness for people making use of the country’s rivers and seas.
Water UK, the industry body representing UK water and sewage companies, said companies plan to invest £12bn to reduce spills by the end of the decade.