UK

Mother claims pleas for help were ignored before son’s death

According to Jodian Taylor, the authorities failed to prioritize her son Daejaun’s case, which ultimately ended in his murder.

A mother whose 15-year-old son was fatally stabbed in a south London street has criticized local social services for not doing enough to protect him from individuals who had allegedly groomed him for involvement with drugs.

Jodian Taylor sits on a dark leather couch wearing a blue satin head scarf with a pink ribbon and an off‑the‑shoulder top, with a large framed mirror and a white door in the background. — Jodian Taylor says her son, Daejaun, was drawn deeper into danger

In an interview with BBC Panorama, Jodian Taylor, the mother of Daejaun Campbell, claims that despite her repeated requests for assistance, Greenwich Council did not recognize the severity of her son's situation until it was too late, and subsequently failed to provide adequate support to the family.

According to Jodian Taylor, there were multiple instances where intervention could have made a difference in safeguarding her son, but these opportunities were missed.

It has been established that social workers and law enforcement were aware that Daejaun Campbell was a victim of exploitation, and that one of the individuals responsible for his death, 17-year-old Imri Doue, was also known to be exploited by criminal elements.

BBC Panorama has obtained documentation that sheds light on the circumstances surrounding Daejaun Campbell's case, including the actions of local authorities.

On September 22, 2024, an incident occurred in Woolwich, where Daejaun was the victim of an attack while on the street in the afternoon.

The assault resulted in Daejaun suffering a severe leg injury from a "zombie" knife, which caused an arterial cut, and he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. During the attempts to save his life, paramedics discovered drugs prepared for distribution in his clothing. As medical personnel tried to rescue him, he uttered the words: "I'm 15, don't let me die."

Investigations suggest that Daejaun's death may be linked to a conflict between rival drug dealers, with Daejaun having been exploited by one of the individuals involved, who had provided him with drugs to carry.

Daejaun resided in the local area with his mother, Jodian, and two siblings. His father had passed away when Daejaun was just seven years old.

Jodian and Daejaun pose closely for a selfie in an indoor public space with tiled flooring, while other people walk in the background near wall‑mounted clocks and signage. — Jodian poses for a selfie with Daejaun

Jodian described her son as a cheerful and inquisitive child; however, she began to notice a change in his behaviour as he entered his early teenage years, which raised concerns about his well-being.

According to her, Daejaun's association with older boys, introduced to him by friends from his secondary school, ultimately led to his involvement in drug sales, as these individuals groomed him for the activity.

Michael Jibowu, a reformed gang member from Woolwich who served a two-year and eight-month prison sentence for stabbing a teenager, notes that it is not uncommon for teenagers in urban areas to be drawn into a lifestyle of crime, and now works to raise awareness about the dangers of knife crime.

Jibowu explains that the allure of wealth and material possessions can be a powerful draw for young people, saying, "As a young boy, you may be tempted by the prospect of earning money, and the presence of drug dealers, who often flaunt their wealth with cars, jewelry, and watches, can be a significant influence, making it easy to become involved in the drug trade, even without actively seeking it out."

Jodian recalls that Daejaun had always aspired to wealth, and she advised him to explore legitimate avenues for achieving his financial goals, but acknowledges that external influences ultimately had a greater impact on his choices.

Daejaun, pictured as a young boy, stands in a party‑supply store in front of a wall of colourful packaged balloons. The display features various foil balloon designs, including “Happy Birthday,” hearts, stars, and character-themed shapes. Larger star and moon balloons hang to the right. Daejaun wears a dark jacket over a white shirt and is centred in the frame. — Daejaun as a young boy: "A happy child, eager to learn"

Following Daejaun's death, images and videos have surfaced showing him in possession of large amounts of cash and drugs, highlighting the extent of his exploitation during that period.

Jodian expresses deep sadness upon seeing certain images, stating that the individual depicted is unrecognizable to her as the person she nurtured.

According to Jodian, Daejaun made a decision, but it was being taken advantage of by adults who prioritized their own financial interests.

Jodian brought her concerns to the attention of Woolwich Polytechnic for Boys, Daejaun's school, in 2023.

As a result, the school organized counseling sessions for Daejaun and requested that Greenwich Council provide support for the family.

Nevertheless, Jodian maintains that the school fell short by not disclosing crucial information to her regarding Daejaun's associations.

Jodian was not informed by the school why certain friends of her son had been prohibited from entering the school premises.

It was only later that she discovered the reason behind this decision was due to their alleged involvement in illicit activities, including the sale of drugs and possession of weapons.

According to Jo Lumbis, the head of safeguarding at Woolwich Polytechnic, confidentiality laws restrict the disclosure of such information, even to parents, stating, "I couldn't have shared details about the drugs and knives with her, as that would have compromised the child's right to confidentiality."

Daejaun, wearing a blue surgical mask, holds a fanned stack of £10 notes. He has medium‑length dreadlocks and is indoors, with a white ceiling and light-coloured walls in the background. — After Daejaun's death, pictures came to light of him holding cash and drugs

Jodian has expressed dissatisfaction with the school's justification for not sharing this information with her.

She clarifies that her request was not for personal details, but rather for information that would enable her to ensure her son's safety, emphasizing that the school's decision not to share this vital information was unjustified.

According to Jodian, her interactions with Greenwich Council left her feeling unheard and desperate for a solution to the situation.

Although the council had assigned youth workers to support Jodian's family, she believed this measure was insufficient. She requested that the council relocate Daejaun to a safer area, but was informed that he did not meet the criteria for such intervention.

Jodian reports that Daejaun's situation continued to deteriorate, with him frequently going missing for extended periods. He was also taken into custody on charges related to the possession and intended supply of cannabis.

Jodian shared her concerns with the youth workers and reached out to Daejaun's school for assistance in addressing the issues he was facing.

Jo Lumbis noted that the school made multiple attempts to collaborate with social services, citing numerous meetings that took place in an effort to find a solution.

In 2024, a series of meetings took place between local schools, law enforcement, and the council to address the issue of child exploitation, with Daejaun's case being a topic of discussion on multiple occasions.

According to legislation, each entity involved has a statutory obligation to collaborate in order to safeguard the well-being of children.

However, Jodian reports that this cooperation did not translate into increased assistance for her and her son.

After Greenwich Council determined that Daejaun was eligible for more comprehensive support, a newly assigned social worker failed to attend key meetings aimed at devising a plan to ensure his safety.

Jodian recalls making repeated attempts to reach social services, only to have the social worker miss two scheduled meetings, further complicating the situation.

Approximately two weeks prior to Daejaun's murder, he disappeared once more, prompting Jodian to threaten relinquishing her parental rights in an attempt to prompt social services into action.

Jodian's efforts were met with silence.

A week later, Jodian sent another email to social services, stating that Daejaun required a new living arrangement and that she had lost all authority over him.

The response she received was a request for her phone number, despite the council already being in possession of this information.

An email was sent by social services to Jodian on September 23, 2024, to reschedule a meeting of significant importance.

The investigation into Daejaun's death had begun, with authorities now focusing on identifying those responsible for his killing.

Following a trial, Imri Doue was convicted of Daejaun's murder in October 2025 and received a prison sentence of 21 years, while Marko Balaz, 19 at the time, was given an 11-year sentence for his role in the crime, specifically manslaughter.

Forensic investigators in white protective suits examine a cordoned‑off residential street while a police officer in a high‑visibility jacket stands nearby. Blue-and-white “Police Do Not Cross” tape blocks the area, with a parked car and fallen leaves visible along the pavement. — September 2024: Police at the scene of Daejaun's murder in Woolwich, south London

Similar to Daejaun, Imri Doue had previously been identified by both the Metropolitan Police and Greenwich Council as a potential victim of exploitation.

When delivering the sentence, the judge expressed concern that Doue had become entrenched in a life of gang activity and violence, describing the situation as "extremely depressing".

According to data from the Home Office, approximately 15,500 children in England and Wales are considered to be vulnerable to or already involved in criminal exploitation.

A second teenager, 14-year-old Kelyan Bokassa, a friend of Daejaun's, was murdered approximately a mile away from the first incident, also a victim of grooming, within weeks of the initial tragedy.

In a statement to Panorama, the Met Police expressed their ongoing condolences to the families of Kelyan and Daejaun, acknowledging the immense and unimaginable pain of losing a loved one to violence.

Jodian places a bouquet of flowers at a street memorial to her son Daejaun, made up of floral tributes, candles, and a purple hoodie wrapped around a pole with a printed photo attached. The memorial sits along a pavement beside a brick wall and metal fence. — Jodian lays flowers near the spot where her son was killed

The Met Police has stated that its primary objective is to hold perpetrators accountable while protecting vulnerable youths from exploitation related to gang activity and drug crime, noting that this strategy has contributed to a 75% decrease in teenage homicides in London since 2021.

Greenwich Council has acknowledged the profound emotional toll on the parents of Daejaun and Kelyan, recognizing that knife crime is a broader issue that affects the community beyond Greenwich, and has expressed its strong condemnation of the violent acts that occurred.

Due to two ongoing safeguarding reviews, Greenwich Council has indicated that it is currently unable to provide further comment on the specific circumstances surrounding the murders of the two teenagers.

The publication of the reviews is expected to take place by the end of March.

To date, no individual has been held accountable for the exploitation of Daejaun and Kelyan.

A significant number of experts argue that the current framework for addressing child criminal exploitation is flawed, resulting in vulnerable children falling through the gaps.

Legislation is underway to specifically criminalize child exploitation, with the Crime and Policing Bill currently under review in the House of Lords.

Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children's Commissioner for England, has expressed concerns that additional measures are necessary to effectively address the issue of child exploitation.

According to her, children's concerns are frequently overlooked by authorities, who either neglect to recognize the warning signs or fail to address the abuse perpetrated by groomers who exploit fear. This oversight can have devastating consequences, resulting in victims being disregarded or even mistakenly identified as offenders rather than receiving the protection they need.

She advocates for a system that prioritizes the well-being of children, where professionals from various fields, including law enforcement, social services, education, and healthcare, receive enhanced training to detect exploitation at an early stage and collaborate to combat it effectively.

Michael Jibowu warns that drug dealers are continually seeking vulnerable individuals like Daejaun or Kelyan, and their efforts will persist until they find a new target.

Jodian says she still feels angry about Daejaun's death

He describes the situation as an ongoing cycle, emphasizing that it will continue unabated unless someone takes initiative and demands change, prompting a reevaluation of the current state of affairs.

Jodian is striving to maintain her composure for the sake of Daejaun's brothers, despite still grappling with feelings of anger and resentment.

Her goal is to increase awareness, driven by a desire to spare other families the suffering hers is experiencing, and to prevent any more children from having their future prospects cut short.

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Motorist Accumulates £20k Debt on Toll Bridge, Prompting Caution

A driver received a substantial fine that was subsequently transferred to a collections agency, resulting in a debt of approximately £20,000.

A driver is facing a substantial bill of £20,000 due to unpaid tolls, which appears to be the result of an administrative error.

The Mersey Gateway toll bridge, which runs across the River Mersey. It is a cable-stayed bridge with the access road looping round from the west. — Residents of Halton can cross the Mersey Gateway for free if they prove their residence

Merseyflow, the operator of the Runcorn-Widnes crossing, has emphasized the importance of notifying them of any changes to the vehicle registered under their discount scheme to avoid potential issues.

Residents in the area are eligible for free crossings through the Local User Discount Scheme, but it is crucial that they maintain up-to-date records to continue receiving this benefit.

A recent incident involved a local driver who allegedly failed to provide necessary documentation to confirm eligibility for the scheme after purchasing a new vehicle.

The driver accumulated penalty charges from December 2023, when the pass expired, to November 2024, resulting in significant fines.

According to Merseyflow, the driver changed vehicles in June 2024 but did not provide proof of eligibility at that time.

It was not until nine months later that the driver submitted the required documentation, leading to the reinstatement of the free pass, as stated by the company.

However, the outstanding fines, which have been referred to a debt collection agency, reportedly cover both the current vehicle and another that the driver claims to have sold in 2021.

In an interview with the BBC, the driver expressed feelings of stress, stating that they had taken the necessary steps but were still facing difficulties.

A Merseyflow spokesperson highlighted the importance of notifying the DVLA immediately in the event of a vehicle sale, transfer, or part-exchange to avoid liability for taxes or fines, emphasizing that failure to do so can result in a fine of up to £1,000.

The spokesperson further explained that the use of an enforcement agent is typically a last resort for unresolved penalty charge notices.

According to the company, cases that progress to the advanced enforcement stage, involving a visit from an enforcement agent, will have had multiple opportunities to settle the debt and received at least five written notifications.

The spokesperson advised individuals who receive a PCN to take prompt action, as ignoring the issue can lead to significant increases in the debt once it is passed on to an enforcement agent.

The company's message to those who receive a PCN is to address the issue promptly to avoid further complications and increased costs.

In 2025, the Mersey Gateway and the nearby Silver Jubilee Bridge saw over 27 million crossings, with approximately 84,000 vehicles using these bridges daily.

News

Local Boy Born with Rare Heart Condition Faces Ongoing Health Challenges

In the UK, approximately 13 children are born daily with heart conditions, a fact that contrasts with the common perception held by Chester’s mother, who believed the condition primarily affected older individuals.

Following an eight-hour open-heart surgery, Chester Osment's heart experienced two episodes of extreme tachycardia, reaching a alarming rate of 280 beats per minute, necessitating immediate medical intervention.

A little boy smiling at the camera. He has a nose tube covered by a plaster. He is strapped into a high chair and has a yellow long-sleeved top on. — Chester's mother has been blown away by how brave he has been and the fact he keeps smiling through everything

The surgeon informed Chester's parents that their son's heart was unusually complex, unlike any he had encountered previously, highlighting the unique challenges of his condition.

Chester was diagnosed with complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD), a congenital heart condition present at birth, which affects the heart's structure and function.

According to the British Heart Foundation, approximately 13 children are born with heart conditions daily in the UK, a statistic that has raised awareness about the prevalence of congenital heart defects among infants, contrary to common assumptions that heart problems primarily affect older individuals.

Throughout his 15 months, Chester has faced numerous health challenges, including sepsis, Covid-19, and endocarditis, with his mother, Kristy Evans, having to administer life-saving CPR on one occasion.

Chester, a baby boy, lies in a hospital bed next to his teddy. He has a bandage on his chest and some tubes attached to his nose. — Chester is "such a strong little boy" says his mum, Kristy

During the initial eight months of his life, Chester's longest period at home was just four days, as he underwent repeated hospitalizations, surgeries, and intensive care stays, often fighting for his life.

Currently, Chester is recovering at home in Blaenavon, Torfaen, gaining strength while awaiting further major surgery, with his mother reflecting on the remarkable journey he has undertaken so far.

Kristy Evans described her son as "incredible" and "brave," noting that he has defied the odds in many ways, demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.

When a nurse detected a heart murmur in Chester at just three days old, in November 2024, Kristy was not immediately concerned, but this discovery would ultimately lead to a series of medical interventions.

As Kristy remained in her hospital bed, her partner, Ben, accompanied Chester for further scans, which would reveal the extent of his heart condition.

A baby and a mother looking over him. The mother has a black t-shirt on and ginger hair. The baby lies in the hospital bed and has tubes on his face and body. — Kristy and Chester spent his first six months between hospitals in Cwmbran, Cardiff and Bristol

Upon Ben's return, Kristy sensed that something was amiss, as she noticed he had been crying and immediately went to the window, indicating that the news was not positive.

Kristy recalled feeling overwhelmed upon learning that Chester required surgery, but his fragile condition meant he needed to gain strength before the operation could be performed.

When Kristy asked the doctor about her baby's prognosis, she received an uncertain response, leaving her with significant concerns about Chester's future.

Chester's condition necessitated life-saving corrective surgery, but he needed to reach a minimum weight of 11lb (5kg) or be at least six months old to withstand the procedure.

At birth, Chester weighed 5lb 7oz (2.59kg), and his weight had dropped to 4lb 11oz (2.12kg) in the following days, making it essential for him to gain weight before surgery.

Complete AVSD is a severe congenital heart defect characterized by a large hole in the heart's center, allowing blood to mix between the four chambers and potentially leading to heart failure.

This condition is marked by the presence of an abnormal valve, which enables excessive blood flow to the lungs, further increasing the risk of heart failure.

The abnormal valve and resulting blood flow can cause permanent damage to the lungs if left untreated, emphasizing the need for prompt medical intervention.

Open-heart surgery is typically required to repair the defect, correct the valve, and prevent long-term lung damage, usually performed in early infancy.

After a 10-day intensive care stay, doctors allowed Chester to return home to gain weight and strength before undergoing open-heart surgery.

A little boy and mother smiling. The mother has long brown hair and smiles at the camera. She has a cream jumper on. The boy also has a cream jumper and gilet. He has blonde hair and blue eyes and has a feeding tube through his nose. — Chester is now at home, and enjoys watching Shrek and horse films

However, Chester's time at home was consistently interrupted by hospitalizations and medical emergencies.

In one instance, Kristy had to administer CPR when Chester's condition suddenly deteriorated, and he turned blue and floppy while being fed through a tube.

The ambulance was called, and Kristy performed CPR until medical help arrived, highlighting the critical need for parental vigilance and preparedness in such situations.

Reflecting on Chester's journey, Kristy expressed her astonishment at the numerous challenges he has overcome, marveling at his resilience and strength.

Chester has experienced repeated hospitalizations due to Covid-19, viruses, and other health issues, primarily resulting from his fragile condition and struggles with weight gain.

By May, Chester's condition had deteriorated significantly, with symptoms including pale appearance, breathing difficulties, and heart failure, prompting doctors to expedite his surgery.

Weighing 4.7kg (10.3lb) at the time, Chester underwent open-heart surgery on June 2, spending eight hours in the operating theater.

Kristy described the experience of watching Chester being put under anesthesia as extremely difficult, leaving her and her partner uncertain about the outcome.

The cardiac surgeon later commented on the uniqueness of Chester's heart, stating that he had never encountered a similar case before.

In the days following surgery, Chester's heart rate surged to 280 beats per minute on two separate occasions, a condition known as Supraventricular Tachycardia, which doctors attributed to the aftermath of open-heart surgery.

A dog and little boy — Doberman Raven is a beloved family pet who Chester enjoys playing with

This condition was treated with medication administered through his veins, helping to regulate his heart rate.

The medication successfully reset Chester's heart rate, alleviating the immediate danger posed by the tachycardia episode.

Chester's recovery was further complicated by sepsis and endocarditis, a rare and life-threatening infection of the heart's inner lining, which delayed his discharge until July 8.

Although the surgeons were able to repair the holes in Chester's heart and create new valves, these valves are currently leaking, necessitating ongoing management through medication.

Kristy noted that while Chester is currently stable, his condition can rapidly deteriorate, potentially leading to heart failure, which could occur within weeks or years.

To undergo further surgery for mechanized valve implants, Chester needs to reach a weight of 10kg (22lb), after which the valves will require periodic adjustments as he grows.

Due to his condition, Chester has experienced developmental delays, unable to crawl and preferring to lie down, but despite these challenges, he remains a happy and strong child.

Kristy described Chester as a cheerful boy who enjoys watching Shrek and horse-themed films, such as Spirit, showcasing his lively personality.

Reflecting on her experience with Chester, Kristy emphasized that heart disease can affect individuals of all ages, including babies, who may be born with congenital conditions that require immediate medical attention.

In February, Kristy, accompanied by her Doberman, Raven, and Chester in his pram, will attempt to walk 100 miles to raise funds for life-saving research, aiming to support critical medical advancements.

According to June Davison, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, the prognosis for babies born with severe heart defects in the UK has improved significantly since the organization's founding in 1961, when most did not live to see their first birthday.

As a result of advances in research, the survival rate for these children has increased substantially, with over 80 percent now reaching adulthood.

Davison noted that as these children grow older, many will require additional surgeries and may face certain limitations in their daily lives.

Despite these challenges, Davison emphasized that numerous individuals with congenital heart disease are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

News

Thames Set to Get New Designated Bathing Areas

According to the government, the proposed plans are expected to result in an increase in the total number of designated bathing sites in England, bringing the total to 464.

A proposed list of 13 new designated swimming sites in England includes the first official bathing spot on the River Thames in London, as well as the filming location for the TV drama Broadchurch.

Seven women in swimming costumes wading pout of the sea at sunrise — Female swimmers take part in an International Woman's day swim

Other locations under consideration are a meadow and river site that inspired The Wind In The Willows, and a picturesque spot in Yorkshire where the River Swale flows over limestone steps, creating a series of waterfalls.

If designated, these sites would be subject to regular water quality testing, a move that campaigners hope will lead to improved river and coastal cleanliness.

The government's plan would bring the total number of official bathing sites in England to 464.

The proposed bathing spot on the Thames in London marks a significant improvement in the river's water quality, which was once declared biologically dead due to pollution in the 1950s.

According to Water Minister Emma Hardy, rivers and beaches play a vital role in many communities, providing a space for people to come together and enjoy the outdoors.

In 2025, 87% of England's designated bathing sites received excellent or good ratings, while 93% met the minimum standards for water quality; however, 32 sites failed to meet these standards.

One of the proposed sites is Little Shore, Amble, in Northumberland.

Amble beach — Beach huts, sand and kindliness abound at Amble

Located in the town of Amble, at the mouth of the River Coquet, Amble Little Shore is a notable spot.

The town of Amble has a notable history, dating back to 1935 when the RMS Mauretania sailed past the town on its final voyage.

On July 6, 1935, the clerk to Amble Urban Council sent a message of greeting to the captain of the Mauretania.

The message read: "Amble to Mauretania. Greetings from Amble, last port in England, to still the finest ship on the seas."

The captain of the Mauretania responded with a message of thanks.

The reply stated: "Mauretania to Urban Council, Amble, to the last and kindliest port in England, greetings and thanks. Mauretania."

Over time, the story of this exchange has been retold, and the term "kindliest" has been replaced with "friendliest" to describe the port.

Another proposed site is Newton and Noss Creeks in Devon, a narrow tidal inlet located off the River Yealm.

Newton and Noss Creeks, Devon – a narrow tidal inlet just off the River Yealm in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; — Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo date back to Saxon England

The villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo have a long history, dating back to Saxon England, and are situated near the mouth of the River Yealm.

The area is also associated with the notorious pirate Henry "Long Ben" Avery, who was born nearby.

Canvey Island Foreshore in Essex is also under consideration, with its family-friendly sandy beach and marshlands that were made habitable by the Dutch in the 17th Century.

Canvey Island Foreshore, Essex. A woman wearing a winter coat walks among seagulls. — Not a Dutchman with a sack

Local legend tells of a ghostly Dutchman who is said to roam the northern parts of the island.

However, it is unlikely that this legend would interfere with the proposed swimming spot.

Sandgate Granville Parade Beach in Kent is another site being considered, with its shingle beach popular among swimmers and kayakers.

Shingle on a summer day with a kayak on the beach, — Hattie Jacques could have carried on kayaking on the Sandgate shingle

The town of Sandgate has been home to several notable residents, including the actress Hattie Jacques and the author H.G. Wells.

H.G. Wells is often referred to as "the father of science fiction", and his work continues to be widely read and adapted.

Queen Elizabeth Gardens in Salisbury, Wiltshire, is also a proposed site, with the River Avon flowing through a green space that was opened in the early 1960s.

A family looks at the river — The tranquil waters of Queen Elizabeth Gardens

The gardens were created to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and offer a tranquil atmosphere, combining formal planting with a relaxed environment.

The park is suitable for visitors of all ages and interests, providing a peaceful space to enjoy the outdoors.

East Beach at West Bay, Bridport, in Dorset, is another proposed site, famous for being the filming location for the ITV drama Broadchurch.

east beach west bay — The area became a popular visiting spot for Broadchurch fans

The show's writer, Chris Chibnall, has described the series as "a love letter to the scenery of the Jurassic Coast", with the landscape playing a key role in the story.

The beach and surrounding area provide a unique and picturesque setting for swimming and other outdoor activities.

The combination of the beach and the dramatic cliffs makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pangbourne Meadow in Berkshire is also under consideration, with its meadow and river having inspired The Wind In The Willows.

Pangbourne water meadow with three people looking at a swimmer in the water amidst greenery. — Mole, Ratty and Badger in their casual clothes

The story, written by Edwardian author Kenneth Grahame, is a classic tale of boating, caravanning, and picnicking, and is also a tribute to the English landscape.

Swimmers can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with its diverse wildlife and picturesque scenery, while appreciating the inspiration for Grahame's beloved story.

The River Fowey in Lostwithiel, Cornwall, is another proposed site, with its tidal river flowing through the heart of the town.

Fowey at Lostwithiel in the spring, with daffodils and a bridge — A bathing-suited King Charles has not been seen. Yet

The area has a rich history, with King Charles III, then the Duke of Cornwall, having stayed in the area, and the town once being an important port for exporting tin to the Mediterranean.

Lostwithiel's history and natural beauty make it an attractive location for outdoor activities, including swimming.

The River Swale in Richmond, North Yorkshire, is also being considered, with its dramatic waterfalls cascading over limestone steps.

richmond falls going over limestone flats, with lots of splashes and spume — Baptisms at North Yorkshire's 'River Jordan' were popular

The river has a significant historical and cultural importance, with St Paulinus supposedly performing baptismal rites in the 7th Century, leading to the river being referred to as "England's River Jordan" by 19th-Century writers.

The river's picturesque scenery and historical significance make it a unique and attractive location for swimming and outdoor activities.

Located in Bungay, Suffolk, Falcon Meadow is a notable site in the region.

Bungay's river looking flat, with clear reflections of trees — Idyllic countryside surrounds the bathing spot in Falcon Meadow

The area is home to one of the country's oldest public footpaths, making it an ideal location for a leisurely walk or a refreshing swim.

In 2012, Falcon Meadow was sold at an auction, and when local fundraising efforts were unable to secure the funds to purchase it for the town, a local businessman intervened and bought the property.

When the businessman decided to sell the meadow in 2015, he agreed to sell it back to the town at the original purchase price.

The River Thames, which runs through Ham and Kingston in Greater London, is another significant location.

The river in summer, with yellowing grass and boats. — The river at Richmond was popular with swimmers in Victorian times

There are plans to establish London's first river bathing site on the Thames, which would be a unique development for the city.

The River Thames has been a source of inspiration for many writers, including William Wordsworth, who wrote about it in 1790 in his poem "Lines written near Richmond".

The poem contains the lines: "Glide gently, thus for ever glide,"

"O Thames! that other bards may see,"

"As lovely visions by thy side"

"As now, fair river! come to me," which reflect the river's beauty and tranquility.

While some swimmers may embody the poetic description of "lovely visions," others may not fit this idealized image.

New Brighton Beach, located in Merseyside, is a popular sandy seaside resort at the mouth of the Mersey Estuary.

new brighton beach in bright sunshine. Two people are paddling in the shallows, — Perfect for paddling, swimming and watching ships

The beach offers stunning views of the Liverpool city skyline and is a great spot to watch ships sail out into the Irish Sea.

The Mersey Estuary is a busy shipping lane, and the beach provides a unique vantage point to observe the maritime activity.

The River Dee, which runs through Chester in Cheshire, is a beloved spot for families, water sports, and wildlife.

River Dee in sunshine. A pavement runs next to the riverbank and a bench, bridge and life ring can be seen. — The River Dee multi-tasks as "a source of pride, a home to wildlife, and a place where people come together"

Campaigners have emphasized the importance of the River Dee, describing it as a central part of the city's identity and a source of community pride.

According to campaigners, securing bathing water status for the River Dee is not just about swimming, but also about protecting the river's ecosystem and preserving it for future generations.