IF you are bored with stately homes or trips to the zoo, then your local sewage or water treatment works could be next on your tourist trail.

United Utilities is offering people around the region a peep behind the scenes to see for themselves what happens after they have flushed the loo or emptied the bath.

"Water is something many of us take for granted and we don't really give much thought to what happens once we turn off the tap or pull the plug," said United Utilities customer services director Gary Dixon.

"We wanted to open our doors to give customers the chance to see for themselves exactly what they get for their money."

As part of the See for Yourself, programme the company is inviting people to visit the local water treatment works at Sweetloves, off Belmont Road, Bolton, or a number of sewage works around the region.

The tours are held regularly and to book a place telephone 01925 233233.