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The coach of Oxford’s crew participating in the Boat Race has criticized the pollution in London’s River Thames, calling it a “national disgrace.” Campaign groups have found high levels of E.coli in the river, raising health concerns for the crew members taking part in the historic race. The Environment Agency reported a significant increase in sewage spills by water companies in 2023 compared to 2022. Despite the pollution, the Boat Race is still scheduled to take place, with the women’s race preceding the men’s event along the 4.2-mile section of the Thames.

Oxford coach Sean Bowden expressed his concerns about the state of the water and the risks it poses to the crews participating in the Boat Race. The focus has shifted to the tradition of throwing the winning cox into the Thames after the race, with safety concerns affecting the decision. Cambridge has been dominant in recent races, winning four of the last five men’s events and leading the overall rivalry 86-81. They have also won six consecutive women’s races. E.coli bacteria, which can cause a range of health issues, have been linked to sewage spills from utility company Thames Water into the river and its tributaries.

River Action, a campaign group, has highlighted Thames Water’s role in the pollution of the Thames, calling for urgent action to clean up the river. The company’s CEO, Chris Weston, has emphasized that E.coli has multiple sources beyond sewage, including land run-off and animal feces. Thames Water is facing financial difficulties and shareholders have rejected a proposed investment plan, raising concerns about the potential nationalization of the company. The general election in the UK is expected to address the state of the country’s rivers, canals, and coastlines, with the Labour Party promising new investments to address the broken sewage system without burdening taxpayers.

The pollution in the River Thames has sparked concerns among crew members and spectators of the Boat Race, with health warnings issued to participants. The impact of sewage spills and the presence of E.coli in the river have raised questions about the responsibility of water companies and the need for urgent action to clean up the waterways. Despite the challenges, the Boat Race is set to proceed as scheduled, although safety measures are being put in place to protect the health of the athletes. The repercussions of the pollution on the environment and public health are likely to be central issues in the upcoming general election in the UK.

The future of Thames Water and its responsibility for the pollution in the River Thames remain uncertain, as the company faces financial difficulties and potential nationalization. The increasing sewage spills and presence of E.coli in the river have highlighted the need for urgent action to protect public health and the environment. The campaign group River Action has called for Thames Water to play a more prominent role in cleaning up the river and addressing the sources of pollution. The upcoming general election is expected to address the need for new investments to fix the broken sewage system and ensure the safety of waterways in the UK.

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