According to the largest UK citizen science water testing project, 83% of English rivers show high pollution from sewage and agricultural waste.

Anglers, frustrated by sewage in their fishing spots, joined the Angling Trust's study.

641 anglers from 240 clubs monitor 190 rivers, revealing widespread pollution mainly from agriculture and sewage spills.

Phosphate levels in 83% of rivers exceed ecological standards, threatening aquatic life.

The Medway, Swale, Ure, Nidd, Upper Ouse, Severn Middle Worcestershire, and other catchments face the highest pollution.

Angling Trust chief executive Jamie Cook urges stricter laws and enforcement to combat river pollution.

Volunteers from the Angling Trust will annually release monitoring results, criticising cuts to government monitoring and lack of transparency from water and agricultural industries.

England plans to differ from EU pollution standards, potentially weakening water quality regulations.

Current targets to reduce phosphate pollution are weak, allowing companies to meet goals with minimal investment, while pollution persists upstream.

Stronger regulations are necessary to ensure effective investment and environmental improvements.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs promises comprehensive action to address water pollution, including stronger regulation and tougher enforcement.

Measures also include increased funding for industry regulator Ofwat, providing them with new authorities and unlimited penalties for polluters.