Drinking water quality in the north 'worst in England'

Tap water quality in the north of England is the worst in the country, according to a new report.

The research, conducted by the Drinking Water Inspectorate, an independent drinking water quality regulator, revealed that tap water in the north is falling short of European standards, and with a 99.93 per cent rate of cleanliness, it also fails to match the 99.96 per cent industry average for clean water.

Professor Colbourne, chief inspector of drinking water, said that despite it being possible to enjoy clean safe tap water most of the time in England, regional variations in quality continued during 2008.

"There is now compelling evidence from consumers to show the benefits of investment in cleaning and renovating the water network, with one-fifth fewer complaints of dirty water," she said.

Meanwhile, the Times of India recently reported that seven people had died in the Indian city of Hyderabad due to having consumed water contaminated with sewage.

Written by Joseph Hutton