The mother of Heather Preen, who tragically passed away from e-coli infection on a Devon beach in 1999, is calling for a meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to address a pressing “sewage crisis.” Julie Maughan, determined and resolute, expressed her unwavering commitment to seeking justice, stating, “I will continue my fight until no other parent has to endure the pain I face every day.”
Recalling the heart-wrenching loss of her eight-year-old daughter, Julie shared, “Heather was a joyful child, brimming with love, joy, and friendship. Our family of four set out on a holiday that summer but returned home as a family of three.” The family’s poignant narrative is featured in the impactful Channel 4 series, “Dirty Business,” which premiered earlier this week.
During their holiday in Devon, Julie, her then-husband Mark Preen, and their daughters witnessed Heather falling ill while playing, shortly after a storm pipe discharge near Dawlish. Julie firmly believes that Heather’s tragic demise resulted from exposure to raw sewage, although South West Water denied any responsibility.
Highlighting the ongoing issue, campaign group Surfers Against Sewage revealed alarming statistics indicating substantial sewage discharge into England’s bathing waters, totaling 124,717 hours in 2025 and already reaching 46,141 hours this year. The Sunday Mirror’s investigation uncovered significant payouts to top executives of water companies alongside substantial dividends, raising concerns about priorities and accountability.
In another distressing account, teacher Reuben Santer shared his experience of being diagnosed with Ménière’s Disease, an incurable ear disorder, following a surfing session at Saunton Beach. Expressing his frustration and disbelief, Reuben questioned how such health hazards persist in a prosperous nation in the present day.
Surfers Against Sewage is advocating for governmental intervention to overhaul the privatized water industry, criticizing the current approach outlined in the Vision for Water White Paper as inadequate. Julie criticized the government’s failure to prioritize public health in its plans, emphasizing the need for concrete actions to prevent future tragedies like Heather’s.
Giles Bristow, CEO of Surfers Against Sewage, emphasized the human impact behind the data, underscoring the ongoing suffering of individuals like Heather and Reuben while corporate profits continue to rise. The urgent call for clean water and accountability resonates in the face of governmental inaction and industry negligence.
Responding to the concerns, South West Water expressed condolences to Heather Preen’s family and highlighted previous investigative efforts that did not identify a definitive source of infection. The government spokesperson outlined measures taken to enhance water quality and regulatory oversight, aiming to ensure transparency, accountability, and environmental protection moving forward.
The collective plea echoes the need for systemic change to safeguard public health and preserve natural resources, underscoring the imperative of prioritizing human well-being over corporate interests.