THAMES Water has issued a safety warning to children who may be tempted to trespass on the firms sites during the holidays.

The company is warning youngsters and their parents that its many sites should not be treated as playgrounds.

Thames Water has a total of 97 water treatment works and 351 sewage treatment works across its region.

Sites in our area include the sewage works in Abbey Barn Lane, in Wycombe Marsh, High Wycombe, and pumping stations in Summersley Road, in Princes Risborough, and Amersham Road, in Gerrards Cross.

Most of them contain potentially dangerous equipment and open stretches of water and should be avoided by children.

Figures compiled by the company show that a high proportion of the tragic accidents in which young children have drowned happen during the school holidays.

Jeff Maddin, Thames Water's health, safety and risk manager, said: "We make regular safety inspections of our sites and go to great efforts to ensure they are secure and clearly signposted."

Mr Maddin added: "It is important that children realise how potentially dangerous these places are.

"There are many hazards, such as steep drops, moving machinery and deep water.

"Although we do have a small number of reservoirs open for public recreational use, youngsters visiting these should always be accompanied by an adult.

" Our other sites should not be entered, particularly by children."