At Swim Oxford we carry out regular water-quality monitoring and use accredited laboratory analysis before all organised Lock to Lock swim events.

 

Water conditions are carefully assessed in the lead-up to each swim, with particular attention given to recent weather patterns, as heavy rainfall and flooding can temporarily affect river-water quality through agricultural runoff, surface drainage, and storm overflow activity.

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All laboratory results are reviewed against recognised inland bathing-water standards for E. coli and Intestinal Enterococci to ensure the river remains within safe parameters for recreational swimming.

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Should any adverse or unacceptable results be identified before an event, the swim would be cancelled or postponed in the interests of participant safety.

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​We will be testing again before the 2026 swims - as close to the swim dates as possible, given enough time for lab analysis. The weather changes will affect the water quality. From our previous test results going back 10 years, you can clearly see the low levels, below the recommended excellent 500 CFU’s per 100ml for E-coli and Intestinal Enterococci.

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