High-tech signs to warn swimmers of sewage spills in real time will be installed at beaches across the region after a string of incidents last year.

Information about when there is a pollution risk, and when swimmers should get out of the water, will be available at five beaches as part of a new scheme from Southern Water and Arun District Council.

This comes after a recent documentary revealed some 16,688 incidents of untreated sewage spills were recorded in and around Bognor last year.

The electronic signs cost some £22,055.48 to build and install and the council hopes they will be working by the end of May.

Signs will be placed at Aldwick, Littlehampton, Felpham and Bognor Regis East with one more to be confirmed.

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A council spokeswoman said:  "These electronic signs will provide real-time information to advise when a pollution risk is forecast, providing advice against swimming, has been issued by the Environment Agency during the bathing season."

“The signs have been funded by Southern Water as part of an AMP 7 Bathing water ODI project, to maintain Felpham Beach to a good standard (PRN751249). However, It was felt that this is a good opportunity to also support other beaches under in Arun. The cost for all five signs is £22,055.48.”