Calls for off-season water testing as E.coli found at popular Clare beach

Tests carried out at Lahinch beach between April and October

People out enjoying the Warm Weather at Lahinch, Co Clare on Monday. Photograph by Eamon Ward

Hundreds of cold water swimmers and surfers could be in danger of contracting harmful infections while swimming in one of Ireland’s most popular beaches this winter.

Independent tests of the water at Lahinch beach in County Clare have found the presence of E.coli and coliform bacteria during the traditional off-season, when Clare County Council does not monitor water quality.