Homeowners in the borough can now take advantage of a new offer running until Easter from Telford & Wrekin Council's award winning HOMEfix scheme.

During the cold weather pipework can often freeze leading to unexpected leaks and water damage. Although turning off the mains water supply seems like an obvious thing to do if a leak occurs, the traditional stopcock is not always inside the house and can often seize up due to lack of use. This can lead to the damage being significantly worse and can cause greater distress to home owners.

Telford & Wrekin Council's HOMEfix service has introduced Sure Stop, a system that enables the water supply to be remotely switched on and off at the flick of a switch, using the latest proven servo valve technology.

The Sure Stop valve is fitted directly into the cold water mains supply using industry standard fittings, a remote switch is then positioned in an easily accessible location, up to four metres away from the valve.

Approved by WRAS, the water industry's testing and approvals body, Sure Stop can isolate the water supply to the entire home, or protect different areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Sure Stop is extremely fast acting and requires no electricity, so is both safe and practical for everyone to use, especially people with disabilities, the elderly and infirm.

Cllr Jacqui Seymour, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Support, said: "I believe the Sure Stop system will be a great advantage to many residents in the borough.

"Anyone who has experienced an unexpected leak or burst pipe will know how much damage it can potentially cause. For older homeowners during this cold weather especially, this can lead to a great deal of emotional distress and cost. The installation of the Sure Stop system will definitely bring peace of mind and give them the chance to take control of the situation until they can get back-up from a plumber."

The Council's HOMEfix service will supply and fit a Sure Stop for £70. The work is done by a trained installer and comes with a two year guarantee.

HOMEfix is available to homeowners over 60 who live in Telford and Wrekin and who need DIY type jobs doing around the house. The normal charge is £15 for the first hour and then £5 per hour up to a maximum of four hours. All the work is done by Council employees with a distinctive bright yellow van.