FAMILIES enjoyed visiting two of Somerset's reservoirs to learn more about the steps taken to ensure over a million people have access to safe drinking water.
Wessex Water, which supplies a 10,000 square kilometer area of the south west, put on a range of games and other activities two recent family fun days.
One was held at Clatworthy Reservoir (Exmoor National Park) on Tuesday, August 9. The other was hosted at Sutton Bingham Reservoir (near Yeovil) the following day.
Children had the opportunity to make water filters, which modelled some of the process that makes muddy reservoir water safe and clean for drinking.
Other activities helped them understand what happens to dirty water that goes down toilets, sinks, and drains, including a ‘Hook A Floater’ game.
Wessex Water, which supplies around 300 million litres of water every day to 1.2 million customers, also showed the families recent upgrades to the reservoir sites.
A spokesperson said: “The events were organised to highlight the opportunity for the public to visit the reservoirs and the beautiful environments that provide habitats for a diverse range of wildlife.
“Many visitors on the day walked around accessible paths and took part in a scavenger hunt to provide a fun challenge and recognise some of the flora and fauna that make up these ecosystems.
“In the last year, Wessex Water has upgraded the public access and facilities at these sites, providing more accessible paths, picnic benches and play areas for children.
“Water refill points have been installed, which were greatly appreciated as both days were very hot!
“Water refill points have been installed in many locations across the Wessex Water region as way of tackling plastic pollution from bottled water, and reducing costs for visitors.”
Both reservoirs are popular for fishing and are well-stocked with trout.
The spokesperson added: “A very popular activity was the fly fishing challenge, lead by the rangers, which gave children and adults a chance to have a go at casting into targets.
“Many of Wessex Water’s reservoirs are stocked and provide an opportunity for fishermen and women of all abilities to have a great experience and catch their tea.
“Many of the visitors expressed their enjoyment and compliments on the improvements, and a number said that they didn’t realise what lovely sites were available, despite living in the region.
“If anyone is interested in the free education service that is available for schools and youth groups, or details of fishing and recreation, the community section of the Wessex Water website provides all the information.
“If you missed these days, and want a day out, there is one more family drop-in day on August 23 at Hawkridge Reservoir.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here