A pressure group set up following ongoing sewage pollution in the sea and on the streets in Newquay is organising a community beach party to raise funds and awareness.

Clean Sea Newquay is holding the gathering at Great Western Beach on Saturday, July 26 from 10am to 4.30pm, which will include music, games, stalls from local businesses, and information about how residents can get involved

The group is staging the event to raise awareness it is seeking solutions and to fundraise to support water testing over the winter months.

Justine Taylor, volunteer on behalf of Clean Sea Newquay, said: “The community beach party will be a joyful gathering in support of clean water.

“We love our Cornish beaches and riversides, but water quality continues to impact our community’s wellbeing. We know it’s been affecting people’s health and dog owners have reported that coming into contact with e coli after sewage spills have made their pets seriously ill. Additionally, a reputation for filthy polluted beaches could threaten the local economy.

“We’re organising a beach party to raise awareness that we’re seeking solutions and bring people together in the spirit of celebration and action. We are fundraising to get support to test water over the winter months as the Environment Agency only tests bathing water from May to September. But most of the overflows happen in the colder months.

“The event will be family-friendly, inclusive, and stewarded by local volunteers. We’ll be offering live music and games. Refreshments are available, as usual at the Great Western Surf Cafe.

“There’s still time to get involved as we’re seeking volunteers. Whether it's setting up, stewarding on the day, or helping with music, food, or cleanup. If people can lend a hand, even just for an hour, we’d be incredibly grateful.

“The community beach part is free but there will be opportunities to donate on the day.”