“Jo in the Water” is a powerful, emotional feature-length documentary film. It is not just about water pollution; it is about connection – to nature, to our own sense of place, and to our responsibility for the world around us.
Join River Hope, Rubbish Friends and film director Pip Piper for a special screening of “Jo In The Water”, followed by a Q&A with Pip and some special guests. This event flows from The Gathering: for water and Nature 6-15 March 2026, marking International Day of Action for Rivers on Saturday 14 March.
Sea swimming is Jo Bateman’s sanctuary – until sewage spills threaten the waters she loves. A passionate sea swimmer turned reluctant activist, Jo Bateman takes on one of the UK’s biggest water companies in a David-and-Goliath battle to protect our oceans from devastating sewage pollution. As Jo’s courage helps ignite a growing movement, this film exposes the dire state of our water system and asks: who will stand up for our right to swim in clean natural waters, for the species and communities that rely upon them?
“Jo inspires people… they realise that together we have a greater strength. In a shoal like this we become mighty.” Chris Packham, Wildlife TV presenter and conservationist
A Fair View Films & Fabian’s Film co-production in partnership with Surfers Against Sewage and River Action UK, featuring Jo Bateman, Jeremy Vine, Jim Murray MBE and Chris Packham.
This film screening is sponsored by Stratford Town Trust, Crowne Plaza Hotel Stratford-upon-Avonand Purple Square Audio Visual Ltd
Our other partners and collaborators for The Gathering: for water and Nature include: Moving Souls Dance, UK River Summit, Stratford Literary Festival, Stratford-Upon-Avon Town Council, River Rights Network, Brook Arts Hub, Talton Lodge, Launch-Agency and others.
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