SMALL businesses in Wiltshire are invited to attend a workshop to find out about the opportunities open to them when the UK's water market opens to competition in April, and how to make a decision on a new water supply and wastewater service scheme which best suits them.

Following a survey commissioned by Ofwat, which found only a quarter of eligible business, public sector and charity organisations in the South West are aware of the changes taking place, the workshop in Bath was arranged by Open Water to explain how the new water market will work, and what businesses need to know to make an informed choice.

The opening of the water retail market means small businesses, public sector and charity organisations in Wiltshire can consider different water retailers to find a package tailored to them, and so lower their bills, making them a more efficient business.

Cathryn Ross, Ofwat chief executive said: "For eligible customers in the South West, the opening of the retail water market represents an opportunity to find a retailer who best suits their needs such as providing consolidated billing, online billing and metering checks or improvements to water efficiency."

The workshop will be held in Bath on Friday, February 24. If you would like to attend the free event, please email claire.nichols1@ofwat.gsi.gov.uk