Warning to stop pouring fat and oil down the drain

The water company said a traditional Christmas roast was "a key culprit"

Residents across the south west of England have been warned against pouring fats, oils and grease down the drain over the festive period.

South West Water (SWW) said there was an increase of fats and oils, known as FOGS, being poured down the drain over Christmas, leading to blockages and fatbergs which can cause flooding and pollution.

The water company said it cleared 6,400 blockages last year, 75% of which were caused by FOGS and wet wipes.

Jay Harris, director of wastewater services, said many of the blockages were "entirely preventable".

Protect household pipes

The water company said a traditional Christmas roast was "a key culprit".

It said FOGS should be disposed of responsibly by wiping pans with kitchen roll before washing up, and to pour used oils and grease into a container then binning once cool.

Mr Harris said: "By making small changes, we can all protect the environment and ensure our sewers continue to operate smoothly.

"Please only flush the 'three Ps' – pee, poo and paper. This is a really simple and effective way of protecting internal household pipes and the wider sewer network."

SWW said about 10 million turkeys were consumed each year across the UK over the festive period.

It said a medium-sized turkey produced about three quarters of a pint of fat.

"This equates to over 5.6 million litres of fat – enough to fill over 18,500 bathtubs," it said.