The Boulter’s to Bray Swim, a historic open-water event in Maidenhead that first began in the 1890s, has been cancelled for 2024. The decision arose following concerns over high pollution levels in the River Thames, including significant sewage discharges which culminated in unsafe conditions, with elevated levels of norovirus and E.coli reported. These issues were notably influenced by recent heavy rainfall which resulted in a controversial 10-hour sewage overflow from nearby systems managed by Thames Water.

Set to occur on July 6, the annual swim covers several distances along a section of the Thames also used by rowers, who similarly raised grievances regarding the river’s cleanliness. The event’s organisers, prioritizing participant safety, opted to either defer entries to 2025 or issue refunds, in line with existing terms and conditions. In their communications, the event trustees expressed deep regret over the decision but remained hopeful for enhanced discharge regulations and clearer guidelines for water use in the future.

Thames Water, with a history of fines for pollution incidents, acknowledged the sewage discharges were linked to extreme weather, among other factors. The company stated its commitment to minimizing environmental impacts and pledged to improve real-time reporting on storm-related discharges.

The cancellation has been a disappointment to the local community, not least due to the event’s cultural significance and its tradition of raising funds for local charities. Trustee Keith Dixon, who has participated in the swim for over 16 years, voiced personal concern about the river’s current state and stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of all participants. Organisers and competitors alike hold out hope for the restoration of the event in 2025, contingent upon significant improvements in the river’s health and safety standards.