Award funds faster Cancer cure
South West Water's Waste Water Services team have donated their Special Commendation prize awarded for their part in the successful management of the foot and mouth crisis to Cancer Research UK.
 They hope the donated £500 prize will assist with the charity's research to find a faster Cancer cure.
The Commendation is part of the annual Pennon Group Environmental Award achieved for environmental care and consideration during operations.
The team played a critical role in the management of the 2001 foot and mouth crisis which had major impacts on South West Water's operational activities.
Waste water staff were able to effectively put in place measures to minimise the risk of spreading the disease through the sewage treatment process. Sludge, a by product of sewage treatment is usually recycled and used as fertiliser on agricultural land, however during the crisis large volumes had to be disposed of in designated landfill sites. Using special guidelines the team were able to successfully minimise the risk of further contamination.
The increased volume of waste tankered in from outside sources posed a risk to the efficiency of the treatment process. However appropriate actions taken by operational staff at the affected works ensured that there was no environmental impact on river or bathing water quality.
"We decided to donate the prize money to Cancer Research because the disease has affected many people close to us," said Dave Townsend, South West Water's Waste Water Science and Technical Manager. "We understand the money will be put towards developing cancer conquering treatment".
South West Water staff were also thanked by DEFRA for their support in managing the crisis.
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For further information please contact Dina Chandler, Communications Officer on 01392 443021.
Published: 28 January 2003
Note to Editors
The Pennon Group Environmental Award has been running for 11 years. It is designed for staff and Partner companies to demonstrate care for the environment and actively address environmental issues.
The Award winners receive £1,000, Special Commendations receive £500 and the Highly Commended entries receive £250.
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