BUSINESSES which rely on water in Taunton Deane fear they could be washed away by inflation-busting price increases.

Wessex Water has announced the biggest hike in the cost of water in the UK -- 20 per cent over the next five years -- and the move has drawn sharp criticism.

Among the angriest reactions was that of Brian Wilson, who has run the Wash of the Week launderette in Taunton's Cheddon Road with his wife, Jennifer, for the past 35 years.

His business now faces a double whammy with increased costs in using water and disposing of it later.

He warned that the spiralling cost of utilities, including gas and electricity as well as water, will be passed on to customers.

"The commodity we use falls from the sky free of charge into our reservoirs," said Mr Wilson.

The huge increases in the cost of water are only the beginning with energy prices set to go up by five per cent.

The hike in water prices will also hit beer and cider makers in the area.

n The water regulator Ofwat says prices are going up beyond inflation to enable companies like Wessex Wa-ter to meet their obligations to provide high-quality services.

The regional watchdog WaterVoice Wessex is collecting comments from the public on the increased charges until Monday, September 20.

They can be contacted by e-mail at wessex@watervoice.org.uk or by post at WaterVoice Wessex, 2 The Hide Market, West Street, St Philips, Bristol BS2 0BH.

To find out what other traders think see the County Gazette (Friday, September 10).