HARD water problems facing towns in west Cumbria have become the target of a politician's campaign.

Copeland MP Trudy Harrison launched a petition last week to urge the Environment Agency to allow United Utilities to draw the borough's water supply from Ennderdale Water for the next five years.

Bootle residents were angered after the blending of fresh water supply from Ennderdale with water from boreholes left them with harder water than many northern cities.

Mrs Harrison said: "Here in Copeland we have received fresh Ennerdale water since the 1850s and we, as a community, are accustomed to the soft water of Ennerdale and should not have to make do with a 50:50 mix.

"I recognise the importance of a protected ecosystem, however, this should not be at the cost of Copeland’s fresh water supply. We should be looking at ways for a continued supply of fresh water while at the same time safeguarding our natural habitats.

"I strongly encourage residents to sign the petition ahead of the meeting to demonstrate the strength of feeling in the community."

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The Environment Agency legally requires United Utilities to reduce water drawn from the lake to protect sensitive natural habitats.

Stewart Mounsey, environment manager for Cumbria, said: "The quality of drinking water is the responsibility of United Utilities and is regulated by the Drinking Water Inspectorate.

"We are actively supporting United Utilities as they develop a way forward for the drinking water supply issues.

"Egremont boreholes are being used as a source of water while United Utilities' Thirlmere pipeline project is under way and we are working closely with the water company to deliver west Cumbria’s demand for water in the best possible way, balancing the needs of people while protecting the sensitive natural environment."

A spokesman for United Utilities said the company was following instructions from the Environment Agency.