Severn Trent has been awarded the top grade for environmental performance by the Environment Agency.

The water company has earned the 4* rating for the fourth time in seven years is one of just two to be awarded the highest award.

Chief executive Liv Garfield said: "This is fabulous news given how hard we've been working to do the best job we can for our customers and for the environment.

"We know how much impact we can have on the environment as a business and we have worked extremely hard to minimise that.

"But, as well as minimising our impact, we also want to do what we can to enhance nature and combat climate change, which is why we've signed up to complete the triple carbon pledge - to have net zero carbon emissions, 100 per cent renewable energy and an all-electric fleet by 2030 - as well as launching our Great Big Nature Boost which aims to improve biodiversity.

"Getting the top grade is always a great feeling, especially as we know, by getting it, we're doing the right thing by our customers and for the communities in which we live and work."