A long-running problem with Sidmouth Hospice at Home's water bill has finally been cleared up.

The charity had unwittingly run up a bill for thousands of pounds in metered charges because there were leaks in water pipes at its 'hub' in the town centre.  

Sidmouth Hospice at Home says the 'long running challenge' over the bill from South West Water has now been resolved.

The charity said: "This positive news means that we have been able to avoid what we were always confident was an incorrect bill from South West Water, totalling a high number of thousands.

"Our sincere thanks to all involved for their continued determination to reach the right outcome, and in particular to Simon Jupp MP, whose kind support was key in reaching this resolution and was greatly appreciated.

"We rely heavily on the generosity of the local community, so it is really pleasing that we have resolved this matter with South West Water, and can direct these significant and valuable funds towards providing care and support to our service users in the Sid Valley."

A spokesperson for South West Water said: “We’ve been working closely with Sidmouth Hospice at Home and their agent to resolve this issue, which was caused by two long-standing leaks on their property dating back several years, and has now been resolved.

“We are pleased to have been able to help Sidmouth Hospice at Home in this instance, and would urge all customers to regularly check for leaks on their property if they believe their water bill is unusually high.”