National TV crew films surfers' 'fudge' snub

BBC rural affairs programme Countryfile was on hand yesterday to film surfers protesting about a lack of progress on sewage treatment. The demonstration took place to question why recommendations made in a green paper at the end of 2006 have yet to be put into practice.

Richard Hardy, local campaigns director for Surfers Against Sewage, said the group had gathered because the States was 'fudging the issue'.

It was the sixth time that SAS has held a public demonstration outside Sir Charles Frossard House. The first was in October 2004.

Mr Hardy said that despite being given four days' notice that the demonstration would take place, no one at Frossard House was available to meet the group.

Chanting 'we won't budge till you take our fudge', they handed a plate of the sweet to staff to symbolise the issue.

'We're very disappointed,' said Mr Hardy. 'But this gives us more momentum.'

An Environment Department spokesman said the States had been informed on Friday and that ministers had been tied up in meetings all day.

Guernsey Boardsailing Association chairman Matt Le Poidevin said his club had joined SAS for the protest because of similar interests.

'One of the club's concerns is the apparent apathy and poor communication with the general public, which helps us understand why things aren't happening,' he said.

Mr Hardy said he knew of many surfers who had suffered ear and throat infections and stomach bugs that could have resulted from contact with contaminated water.

'Guernsey needs to invest in a proper sewage treatment system,' he said. 'Jersey did years ago and has won awards for its beach and water cleanliness. Guernsey could replicate that.'

He said he did not think it was socially acceptable to dump sewage in the sea.

SAS said it would be writing to the States as a result of yesterday's protest.

Public Services minister Bill Bell was unavailable for comment last night.