GALA residents have been set a challenge to help save water, energy and money.

Working in partnership with Home Energy Scotland and SBC, Scottish Water are helping people in the town to to be more water efficient to reduce their heating bills as well as helping the environment.

The initiative launched after data by the water film highlighted that the people of Galashiels collectively use about 820 million litres of water a year taken from local rivers in the Tweed River catchment area.

Energy advisors from Home Energy Scotland will be in Galashiels town centre on Saturday, July 15 to give away free water efficiency packs and provide energy advice to help reduce your water usage and to help cut energy bills.

The water saving packs include eco shower heads, toilet cistern devices and tap inserts save around 43,800 litres of water a year, with the potential to save around £120 a year on an average energy bill for a family of four.

Elaine Hutchison, Scottish Water’s water resources planner said: “Each person in Scotland uses about 150 litres of water every day, so if each household in Galashiels make small changes to reduce their water use by 5%, this could save around 41 million litres of water per year. That’s enough water to fill Galashiels swimming pool 100 times.

“As well as using the gadgets in the packs, there are lots of simple things that we can all do such as turning the tap off when brushing your teeth, taking shorter showers; filling up the washing machine and washing at 30 degrees and with summer upon us using a watering can to water the garden and plants instead of a hose.

“With more people using water every day, it’s important we all use water wisely to protect future supplies, keeping more water in the natural environment. The aim is not to restrict use, but avoid waste.”

Councillor Gordon Edgar, SBC's energy efficiency champion said: “The Council fully supports this project and would encourage Galashiels residents to get involved. It will not only help the environment by saving water and energy but also could save you money.

“Look out for the Home Energy Scotland advisors in Galashiels on July 15 to find out more.”

For more about saving water in Galashiels and to get a free water efficiency pack, call Home Energy Scotland on 0808 808 2282 or visit: www.scottishwater.co.uk/savewatergalashiels.