Cities, towns and villages throughout the county are preparing to welcome their very own Yorkshire Water community ambassador - as the 40 strong group of volunteers introduce themselves to their local community.

The community ambassador for Ilkley is Phil Rees, who works for the company as a pensions officer - and lives in Ilkley.

Mr Rees said: "As Yorkshire Water's community ambassador for Ilkley I am hoping to get more involved with my

community by talking to

the local council, various groups and community organisations, clubs, schools and businesses.

"I can answer questions people may have about Yorkshire Water's work and also listen and respond to any issues - both positive and

negative - that may be raised."

The community ambassador scheme was launched earlier this year to further strengthen the company's links

with its customers across the region.

The aim is to see employees, drawn from all levels of the business, acting as a conduit between Yorkshire Water and individual councils and

organisations on water related issues.

Cheryl Wright, Yorkshire Water's community affairs manager said: "We have been delighted with the response from employees and their eagerness to represent the

company within their local communities.

"Many of them are very proud of the work that the company does and the tremendous progress it has made.

" Being a community ambassador gives employees the opportunity to explain more about Yorkshire Water, but also enables them to tackle any issues or concerns that

effect their very own

community."

Anyone in the Ilkley area who would like to know more about Yorkshire Water, has any issues or concerns or would like their community ambassador to address a local group, can contact Yorkshire Water's

customer helpline on 0845 1 242424.