Northumberland residents using private water supplies have been urged by the county council to regularly have it checked.

A private water supply is one that isn't provided by a water company.

Most are situated in rural parts of the county, serving one or more properties via a pipework network.

The supply may be a spring, borehole, well, stream, river, lake, pond or rainwater.

There are more than 1,000 within the county.

If a private water supply is used for more than one house, for commercial purposes, or in a public building, a professional from the council will visit to inspect and take water samples.

However, home owners will need to request a check if they are the only property supplied by the source.

Gordon Stewart, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Looking after our Communities said: “Regular checks are essential for protecting public health and we urge anyone using a private water supply to ensure their water is safe.

“Even if water looks clear, untreated water can contain chemical contamination or microorganisms from animal droppings or human sewage which may not be detectable by taste or smell."

Queries or requests for checks can be done through the council’s website, phone line, or via email.