Debit to credit

12/02/2004

A North East accountant should have no problem balancing his books after winning more than £1,500.

Middlesbrough-born Mike Wear who now lives in Heaton, Newcastle, was automatically entered into a free prize draw by Northumbrian Water when he signed up to pay his water bill the hassle-free way - by direct debit.

Over 22,000 customers entered into the free prize draw to have their water bill paid for the next five years – Mike Wear has received a cheque for £1,553.40.

Mike, who is married with three sons, said: “It was a pleasant surprise when I was told I had won – I am going to use the money to pay the water bill – sensible accountant!

“It will be nice to have one bill which I don’t have to worry about paying for the next five years.  I signed up to pay my bill direct debit is because is it hassle-free – one less thing for me to worry about.”

Northumbrian Water Limited has 770,000 customers who pay their bill by direct debit which also qualifies them for a £5.00 discount on their annual water and sewerage bill.

To arrange to pay your water bill by direct debit ring the Northumbrian Water Customer Contact Centre on 08457 335566.

For further information contact Cara Hall, Communications Adviser,  on 0191 301 6720.