HOUSEHOLDERS angry at a 15 per cent increase in water rates are urged not to bury the bill and hope it goes away.

The message comes from consumer watchdog WaterVoice, which said it was very disappointed at April's steep price hike, but now it was introduced, homeowners should speak to their water provider Severn Trent if they had a problem with payment.

WaterVoice regional chairman Sir James Perowne told the Worcester News: "If people - especially those on fixed incomes like pensioners - don't think they can manage their bill, we urge them to contact Severn Trent and

look at easy payment methods like direct debit to sort out

the problem."

Following the April 1 rise, the average cost of a bill will climb from about £220 a year to £250.

Sir James also said people should consider water saving measures like fitting shower tips on their taps to reduce the volume of water, taking showers instead of baths, and especially for single people or couples without children, having a meter fitted, which could reduce bills substantially.

On Friday, he also promoted forward WaterVoice's role ing fighting for customers who feel they are getting a raw deal from Severn Trent.

Individuals or businesses who cannot resolve a query over their bill, think they are being overcharged or suffer from flooded drains can call WaterVoice on 0121 6445252, or log on to central@water

voice.org.uk