Beachgoers are being urged to check the Rivers and Seas Watch service.

It comes as families and friends head out for trips in the sun.

Rivers and Seas Watch, which underwent upgrades this spring, provides near real-time data on storm overflow releases.

An improved tidal modelling system provides a visual representation of any storm overflow impact on bathing waters.

This allows the public to determine if their beach destination is impacted by a storm overflow, allowing for informed decisions.

Recent surveys show that around 80 per cent of Southern Water's customers in its region visited at least a single beach, lake, or river in the last year.

This trend is expected to continue, highlighting the importance for day-trippers to check Rivers and Seas Watch prior to setting off for their trips.

The data for Rivers and Seas Watch is accessible on Southern Water’s website, which also includes user guides and service information.