River Wey water quality improves at Tilford

Water quality tests on the River Wey at Tilford South Bridge have recorded their best results of the summer. For the first time this season, E. coli levels on both sides of the river fell below the key bathing-water threshold of 1,000 MPN per 100ml.

On August 8, samples recorded 222.4 MPN per 100ml on the west side and 613.1 MPN per 100ml on the east side. These results are part of ongoing citizen-science monitoring involving Water Rangers and the River Wey Trust, with testing at Tilford South Bridge sponsored by the Tilford Parish Council.

While the results fall within bathing-water guidance, experts note that these figures represent only a snapshot of conditions. E. coli levels remain subject to significant fluctuations based on rainfall, river flow, and pollution sources, necessitating continued monitoring to determine if the improvement is sustained.