HOUSEHOLDERS in Rossendale are being offered a day with a difference -- a trip around a sewage works.

United Utilities is offering people in the Valley the chance to see for themselves what happens after they've flushed the loo, loaded the washing machine, or emptied the bath.

Through the 'See For Yourself' programme, the company aims to show the public how it looks after around seven million customers around-the-clock.

Gary Dixon, United Utilities director of customer services, said: "Water is something many of us take for granted, and we don't really give much thought to what happens once we turn off the tap, or pull the plug.

"It's our job to collect water, treat it to the highest standards, pipe it into people's homes, take it away, and return it safely to the environment.

"Now we are giving the chance of a behind-the-scenes look at exactly how we keep the water flowing -- and also treat the equivalent of 184million toilet flushes every single day."

Customers will be able to check out their local water treatment site, sewage works, or even visit the company's laboratories in Warrington during the visits.

Mr Dixon added: "We wanted to open our doors to give customers the chance to see for themselves exactly what they get for their money."

Rossendale's Haslingden Grane water treatment works will be open to the public. For opening times and to book a visit contact 01925 233233.