New real-time water testing device demonstrated at Fistral Beach

A new handheld device scientists claim is capable of testing water quality in just 15 minutes has been demonstrated at Fistral Beach in Newquay.

The technology, developed at the University of Plymouth and a laboratory based at Treliske, provides what its creators describe as “real-time” data.

During the demonstration, a small sample taken from the shoreline returned a “green for go” reading.

The device, called Bactiquick, is designed to give rapid on-site readings of bacterial contamination in rivers, lakes and coastal waters. Developers say traditional laboratory testing typically takes between 24 and 48 hours, meaning conditions may change significantly before results are made public.

Supporters of the new technology say quicker testing could help swimmers, surfers and other water users make safer decisions, and allow communities to respond more effectively to pollution incidents. Water quality can be affected rapidly by sewage discharges, agricultural runoff, septic tanks and wildlife.

Founder Simon Jackson said everyone should have access to clear and timely information about water quality before entering the sea. He said that with accurate readings available in 15 minutes, communities would be able to act more swiftly to protect water users.

Bactiquick measures a wider range of pathogens than standard tests, including Salmonella, Leptospirosis and Vibrio. The handheld device can be used directly at the water’s edge, with results recorded through an app that logs GPS locations and timestamps to build a live dataset.

The company says community groups are being encouraged to crowdfund to buy test kits, and the device is also being targeted at surf schools and water-based businesses who want to monitor conditions more regularly.

Environmental charity Surfers Against Sewage told the demonstration event, hosted at The Stable, that they are working with ten communities trialling the technology as part of their call for real-time water quality monitoring across the UK.

Bactiquick says that although it began in the South West, interest in the device is now international.

More information is available on the Bactiquick website.

PRESS PLAY to hear from founder Simon Jackson and Surfers Against Sewage.