Julie Maughan, the mother of Heather Preen who tragically passed away from an e-coli infection at a Devon beach in 1999, is calling for a meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to address the ongoing “sewage crisis.” Julie remains resolute in her mission, stating, “I will persist until no other parent endures the pain I face daily.”
Recalling the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Julie shared, “Heather, just eight years old, lost her life to contaminated water. Our family of four went on vacation that summer, only to return as a family of three.” Their poignant story is featured in the impactful Channel 4 drama series, Dirty Business.
During their holiday in Dawlish, Devon, Heather fell ill while playing, shortly after a storm pipe discharge into the sea nearby. Julie strongly believes Heather’s subsequent death was due to exposure to raw sewage, a claim disputed by South West Water.
Campaign group Surfers Against Sewage recently disclosed alarming figures showing extensive sewage discharge into England’s bathing waters, with over 124,000 hours in 2025 and a further 46,000 hours this year.
Julie emphasizes the need for change, criticizing water companies for their actions and lack of accountability in protecting public health. She urges the government to overhaul the privatized water industry, expressing disappointment in current policies that prioritize investors over the safety of beachgoers.
Giles Bristow, CEO of Surfers Against Sewage, highlights the human impact of the ongoing pollution crisis, stressing the need for urgent action to prevent further harm. The group’s relentless advocacy aims to ensure clean water for all, condemning profiteering at the expense of public health.
In response, South West Water expressed sympathy for Heather’s family, citing previous investigations that failed to pinpoint a definitive cause for the tragedy. The government spokesperson reiterated commitments to environmental protection, including increased oversight, investment, and strict penalties for water company executives found obstructing investigations.
Efforts are underway to reform the water industry, with plans for a new regulatory framework focused on early prevention and robust enforcement measures to safeguard water quality and public well-being.
