FLOODING in Royston can be prevented if residents stop using sewers as an invisible dustbin , according to a water company. Anglian Water is holding a road show tomorrow (Friday) to discuss the causes of the flooding in Royston over the last few years, a

FLOODING in Royston can be prevented if residents stop using sewers as an "invisible dustbin", according to a water company.

Anglian Water is holding a road show tomorrow (Friday) to discuss the causes of the flooding in Royston over the last few years, and ways which it can be prevented in the future.

This summer saw flooding hit homes on the Burns Road estate and the Twigden development.

Collette Nicholl, from Anglian Water, said that one of the main reasons for the flooding was a build-up of fats, oils and grease in Royston's main sewer.

She said: "Four tonnes of fats, oils and grease (FOG) together with other waste which should not be in the sewer was taken out of the main Royston town sewer following the flooding.

"We can make a difference by all working together to help the sewer do its job and not abuse it by using it as an invisible dustbin."

Royston MP Oliver Heald will be present at the start of the event.

Mr Heald, who met the water company earlier this year to demand a "full report" into flooding in Royston, said: "This is a question of community spirit for people in Royston.

"We need to treat fats, oils and grease responsibly so that our neighbours are not flooded out and their homes soaked with filth.

"This is about Royston businesses showing social responsibility."

Councillors have been invited to the event, while Cllr Bernard Lovewell, portfolio holder for housing and environmental health at North Herts District Council, will also be there.

Cllr Lovewell said he was looking forward to working with Anglian Water to raise people's awareness of the "unpleasantness" flooding can cause.

He added: "Many people are unaware of the potential damage and problems incorrect disposal of items down the sewer can bring about."

Last month The Crow reported that residents of the Burns Road estate had set up a group to press for action to be taken to stop the floods.

They plan to attend the next meeting of North Herts District Council's Royston area committee to put their views to councillors.

Businesses will be able to find out details of a free collection service of waste cooking oil and fats offered by Evergreen Energy UK Ltd and Unique Oils.

The road show takes place tomorrow in Royston market square, beginning at 10am.