South West Water is inviting the public to explore behind the scenes during England’s largest celebration of culture and heritage.

The company is offering an exciting opportunity to explore local heritage sites including England’s first hydro-electricity station and a pumping station which operates underneath the feet of beach goers.

On Thursday 13 and Friday 14 September 2018, as part of the National Trust’s Heritage Open Day celebrations, members of the public can visit:

The UK’s founder of green energy: Mary Tavy Hydroelectric Power Station, Dartmoor

Visit England’s first and still operational hydro-power generator, which has harnessed the power of Dartmoor’s water for the last 90 years.

Site Manager, Karl Jones, said: “Built in the 1930s, the site generates enough energy to power 1,700 homes. The site provides a fascinating insight into how power from water has developed over the decades.”

Open day: Thursday 13 September. Join the team for a coffee and explore the grounds including original and modern techniques between 10am and 4pm. Picnics welcome. Book via eventbrite: www.marytavyhod.eventbrite.co.uk

Climb the water tower at the South West’s largest reservoir: Roadford Dam, near Okehampton

When full, Roadford Reservoir, near Okehampton, contains enough water to fill 14,000 Olympic sized swimming pools. After walking under the dam, which impounds water from the River Wolf, visitors will take the 170-step climb to the top of the valve tower.

Tours: Thursday 13 and Friday 14 September, hourly between 10am- 12pm, 1:30pm and 2:30pm. This event is not suitable for those with heat conditions, for further health and safety advice and bookings visit eventbrite: www.roadfordhod.eventbrite.co.uk  

What happens after you flush: St Leonard’s Launceston Sewage Treatment Works

Celebrating its 120^th anniversary this year, discover how Launceston’s wastewater undergoes a biological treatment process.

Tours: Thursday 13 and Friday 14 September at 9am and 2pm. Book via eventbrite: www.stleonardshod.eventbrite.co.uk

Behind the Lyme Regis Sea Wall: Gun Cliff Sewage Pumping Station

Site Manager, Peter Turney, said: “Visitors will be surprised to discover what goes on under their feet as they stroll along the promenade eating their ice creams. Visitors will explore the underground tunnel and storm chamber and discover the role the site plays in maintaining Lyme Regis’s bathing waters.”

Tours: Thursday 13 and Friday 14 September, hourly between 10am – 3pm (excluding 1-2pm) Book via eventbrite: www.guncliffhod.eventbrite.co.uk