Water quality tests on the River Wey have recorded their best results of the summer so far, with E. coli levels on both sides of the river falling below a key bathing-water threshold for the first time.

Samples taken at Tilford South Bridge on August 8 recorded E. coli levels of 222.4 MPN per 100ml on the west side and 613.1 MPN per 100ml on the east.

Both were below the 1,000 per 100ml single-sample threshold used as a benchmark for “sufficient” inland bathing water quality.

According to those carrying out the testing, it is the first time this summer that samples from both sides of the river have fallen below the threshold at the same time.

The west-side sample produced the better result, although both were described as being within bathing-water guidance.

The tests form part of ongoing citizen-science monitoring of the River Wey and its surrounding watershed, with samples processed by a laboratory and results submitted to Water Rangers.

The River Wey Trust is also publishing laboratory results as part of its wider water-quality monitoring programme in Surrey.

Testing at both locations at Tilford South Bridge is sponsored by Tilford Parish Council.

However, the latest results provide only a snapshot of conditions, as E. coli levels can change significantly depending on rainfall, river flow and sources of pollution.

Continued monitoring will be needed to establish whether the latest results represent a sustained improvement in the river’s water quality.