WATER watchdogs have pledged to ensure the public's voice is still heard following the merger of North West Water with Norweb.

The North West branch of OFWAT is planning to forge closer links with the electricity watchdog in the region to make sure services are improved where possible and savings passed on to customers.

"My committee will be working hard to ensure that customers get the best possible service and that shareholders are not the only ones to benefit from the merger," said Anthony Goldstone, chairman.

"If North West Water and United Utilities do not appreciate that customers have concerns about the merger, we do.

"Customers must enjoy the benefits resulting from this merger."

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