Water bill rise will be 'crippling' says laundrette owner

Thames Water has asked its regulator, Ofwat, for permission to raise prices.

It wants to put up bills by about £29 per household during 2014-15, but has asked Ofwat if it can spread the rise over more than one year.

The company says the rise is needed to cover preparations for the construction of the Thames Tideway Tunnel.

Laundrette owner Shezmina Alibhai has said her business will not be able to absorb the price increase.