WaterSafe shares University water checklist

WATERSAFE, the national register of approved plumbers and water contractors, is sharing 5 top tips students need to know before they move into student accommodation.

These tips will help make sure students' water supplies are high quality and help them stay on top of their bills and give them the know-how on dealing with leaks and bursts.

If you're responsible for paying the water bill, find out who the local water supplier is, take a meter reading and set up an account with them - this can often be done online any time of day or night

Make sure you know where your internal stop tap is, so you can quickly turn the water off if you find a leaking or burst pipe

Keep the name and number of a WaterSafe approved emergency plumber handy, or ask your landlord if they have 1 in mind, just in case of an urgent problem

Whether you're looking to save money on your water bill or contribute to leaving more water in the environment, you may be eligible for free water saving devices via the Get Water Fit or Save Water Save Money websites

Ask your landlord or University if they have completed a legionella risk assessment; while rare, it is possible to contract Legionnaire's Disease by inhaling water droplets contaminated with legionella bacteria.

Kevin Wellman, Director at WaterSafe said:- "Going to University for the 1st time, or returning in subsequent years, is a really exciting time. We know that your water supply may not be top of your agenda, but following these 5 simple tips will help keep you and your housemates healthy and allow you to confidently manage your bills and find an approved plumber, should you need one. These tips can be followed when you 1st move in, or even before, leaving you to enjoy your studies and everything University has to offer for the rest of the academic year."

For help and advice on various water related topics, or to find a local approved contractor, visit:- WaterSafe.Org.UK.

Revealed the Top 10 UK Google Searches for Christmas Markets

THIS week Julianna Marshall from the International Drivers Association has contacted us saying:- "In the heart of Winter, Christmas Markets bring warmth and light to the darkest corners of the United Kingdom. For savvy travellers, Google search data sheds a light on which markets to explore."

Reasearching this toipc, the International Drivers Association has found that, according to the latest Google Search data in 2023, these are the top 10 Christmas Markets in the UK with their respective features:-

1. Bath Christmas Market - 140,000 UK Searches

Located in the picturesque City of Bath, this market features over 150 chalets, each housing high quality handmade crafts, food items, and Christmas decorations. The vision of twinkling lights against the backdrop of Bath Abbey is not to be missed.

2. Manchester Christmas Market - 137,000 UK Searches

As 1 of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in the UK, Manchester's event offers a diverse range of stalls distributed across 10 different sites in the City, encompassing world foods, handcrafted gifts, and festive drinks.

3. Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market 136,000 UK Searches

Offering a German twist on festivities, this market is recognised for its German food stalls. The bratwursts, pretzels and schnitzels are authentic crowd-pleasers.

4. Edinburgh Christmas Market - 136,000 UK Searches

Edinburgh's market stands out for its stunning location, under the shadow of the historic Edinburgh Castle. The fantastic mix of unique gifts, festive food and drinks, and a jovial atmosphere make it a must-visit.

5. Lincoln Christmas Market - 129,000 UK Searches

Emulating the traditional German Christmas Market, Lincoln's market is famous for its medieval square, illuminated by light decorations providing a unique atmosphere and delving into the historical essence of the City.

6. Leeds Christkindelmarkt - 128,000 UK Searches

Another German-styled Christmas market, the Leeds Christkindelmarkt is renowned for providing a colourful programme of entertainment along with an extensive range of seasonal treats.

7. Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market - 112,000 UK Searches

Held in the grounds of Winchester Cathedral, this market offers a festive experience framed by history and tradition. The market is known for its excellent standard of beautiful British craft stalls.

8. Glasgow Christmas Market - 98,000 UK Searches

Scots and tourists alike love Glasgow's Christmas Market for its friendly vibe and a wide range of food and craft stalls, wrapped in a cocoon of sparkling lights.

9. York Christmas Market - 95,000 UK Searches

York's famous St Nicholas Fair has a mix of artisan gift stalls and festive foods, interspersed with traditional carol singing, all set within the medieval City Walls.

10. Cardiff Christmas Market - 95, 000 UK Searches

Established for over 20 years, Cardiff's Christmas Market brings together talented artists, craftspeople and food and drink producers from across Wales, adding a unique charm to the festive season.

These markets offer more than just shopping opportunities. They create a festive atmosphere that combines tradition, history, fun and joyous celebration.

Julianna Marshall concluded:- "Exploring UK's Christmas Markets is a magical experience that can warm any winter's chill. As the festive season approaches, it's time to plan your visits. Come for the food, stay for the crafts, but above all, soak up the unique atmosphere that only a Christmas market in the UK can offer. The lights are on, the stalls are open, and the magic of the season awaits. So, where will your festivities take you this year?"

So, are you holding a Christmas Market? Are you going to any Christmas Market? Have you search for a Christmas Market? Please let us know your thoughts about this festive topic, by emailing us at:- News24@SouthportReporter.Com or send us a message on:-  Mastodon, Facebook or Twitter.
 
1 major thing to remember, that should you attend any Christmas Markets, please do not drink and drive? Sadly, The International Drivers Association also urges Christmas partygoers not to risk driving the day after the night before, over the festive period or any time of the year!