20/06/08
On 16 June Health Secretary Alan Johnson raised a glass – of tap water, naturally – to the memory of the great scientist and entrepreneur John Snow.
Health Secretary Alan Johnson raises a glass of tap water in celebration of a major health breakthrough 150 years ago.
The pioneering scientist discovered the connection between cholera and contaminated tap water and by using a mapping system pinpointed a water pump in Soho as the main cause in London.
The John Snow pub now stands on the spot of the deadly pump and was used for the tribute, jointly staged by Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and WaterAid on the 150th anniversary of Snow’s death.
An RSC Landmark plaque was also unveiled which will be fixed to the wall of the pub. The plaques are used to mark locations of remarkable scientific achievement.
These days UK tap water is among the best in the world. A tough regulatory regime ensures that the quality of mains water meets the standards set by the EU Drinking Water Directive backed by the World Health Organization.
The most recent annual report from the Drinking Water Inspectorate shows that 99.96% of all tests carried out in England met the required standards.
Five years ago Water UK launched the Water for Health Alliance, a water industry initiative to guide and inform health authorities and stimulate interest and research in hydration. The Alliance aims to work closely with government and health authorities to influence policy.
Naturally tap water was served to all who chose to honour John Snow.
Drinking Water in England and Wales
Drinking Water Inspectorate report (2006)
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For more information please contact:
Karen Thompson, Communication Adviser
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