SOUTH Staffs Water customers being given a pat on the back for helping to raise £36,204 last year for the company’s nominated charity, WaterAid.

This is enough to transform the lives of 2,413 people through improved access to safe, clean water. WaterAid’s aim is to overcome poverty by enabling the world’s poorest people gain access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education.

South Staffs Water began running its customer campaign in 1995. Since then customers have raised more than £679,682 for the charity. That is enough to help 45,312 people get access to safe water, which is equivalent to 59% of Tamworth.

Employees have also been doing their bit too. Last year 11 staff took part in the Severn Trent Mountain Challenge, raising a total of £145, which could pay for nine toilets in Zambia.

Barbara Frost, chief executive of WaterAid, said: “On behalf of everyone at WaterAid I would like to thank South Staffs Water customers and staff for helping us bring safe water and sanitation to some of the world’s poorest communities. Together, they have raised more than £36,204 - that’s enough to reach 2,413 people with these basic necessities.

“Gaining access to water and sanitation really does transform lives - improving health, education and livelihoods and forming the first, essential step in overcoming poverty. The amazing support we receive from businesses and individuals is vital as we work towards a world where everyone, everywhere, has clean water to drink and a safe place to go to the toilet.”

WaterAid was set up by the UK water industry in 1981 before becoming an independent charity.

Rachel Barber, customer service director of South Staffs Water, said: “We’re very proud of our continuing support for WaterAid and being part of such a longstanding partnership that is making a huge difference to some of the world’s poorest people.

“Every hour last year WaterAid reached over 200 people with safe water - together we are transforming lives.”