NORTH West Water has come under fire from watchdogs for offering a poor service to customers. In response to the 1996-1997 Report on levels of service for the industry in England and Wales, the Ofwat North West Customer Service Committee (CSC) singled out the water company for criticism.

They were slammed for failing to provide bills for metered customers based on actual readings, and sewer flooding.

Ian Byatt, director general of water services, has written to the company to inquire how it plans to improve services.

North West Water was assessed as "well below average" for the number of metered bills sent out based on estimates, rather than company or customer readings.

Its level of meter reading, at just under 93 per cent, is the industry's worst.

They also received a "below average" rating for sewer flooding incidents.

Maurice Terry, North West CSC chairman, said: "Although the company has slightly improved its overall performance, the number of meters unread by the company for two years or more has increased. He added: "The company has made great strides in tackling the foul flooding problem.

"However, other companies have done much better, which reflects poorly on North West Water. Greater strides must be taken to keep pace with the industry as a whole."

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