Downpours lead to beach warnings

Preston was awarded a Blue Flag

Torrential downpours have led to pollution warnings at two Devon beaches at the height of the tourist season.

Tests by the Environment Agency at Torre Abbey in Torquay and Preston in Paignton revealed the sea water had failed mandatory quality standards.

There are signs at both beaches advising swimmers to stay out of the water until further notice.

Preston beach was awarded the coveted Blue Flag for clean water and good facilities earlier this year.

Review call

Beryl McPhail, Torbay councillor responsible for tourism, told BBC News: "The water is usually very safe and we monitor it on a regular basis, but nature is more powerful than human beings are.

"We have put notices up warning people about the sea water, but we expect the water will be back to normal quite soon.

"It's just a shame that it has happened at this time of year."

The pollution came as the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) called for an urgent review of thousands of storm drains at coastal resorts.

Coastal pollution officer Thomas Bell said: "The problem is that the sewer system was designed for a climate which is different from the one we have got now.

"Because of the effects of climate change we are having a lot more rain.

"The combined sewer overflows are starting to discharge a lot more often than they should. Their environmental impact is greatly increasing."