Recently I applied online to Southern Water and within ten days they installed a water meter – free. My monthly payments almost halved.

This could benefit many others. It is important first to see whether a meter is financially worthwhile and as a rule of thumb, if there are more bedrooms in your house than people, you should look into getting a meter.

Also, Sussex is one of the driest counties in England. If we can reduce our water consumption, this will protect our rivers, environment and also stave off the arrival of compulsory water metering, which some experts think is inevitable.

What I would like to see is local authorities like West Sussex County Council working with water companies to raise the awareness of the benefits of water meters – something we would all gain from.

Ian Irvine

Sorrel Close, Broadfield, Crawley