From socks to snakes and a Teletubby inflatable: Thames Water reveals the strangest things found blocking its sewers
Water company Thames Water has detailed some of the strangest discoveries found inside its sewers, which range from socks and snakes to an inflatable Teletubby.
Thames Water released the list in the run-up to Halloween, but says there is also a serious message that everyone has the responsibility to stop sewer misuse.
Thames Water reported that an inspection camera in the Thames Valley area showed a corn snake sliding around in the pipes, suspected to be an abandoned pet.
Other unusual discoveries include a pack of rats in London’s sewers, accompanied by live crabs, which can sometimes end up there due to flooding caused by heavy rain.
The water company said that some of the items discovered point to sewer misuse, with fridges, televisions and mobile phones all found within the pipes.
The company says blocked drains and sewers can lead to flooded streets, and in severe cases, back up into homes.
Thames Water says the discoveries are reminders that only the three Ps - pee, poo and (toilet) paper should be flushed down the toilet.
It says that it spends more than £40 million per year clearing around 75,000 sewer blockages from its network of 100,000 kilometres of pipes.
Head of waste operations at Thames Water Tim Davies said: ‘We look after more than 100,000 kilometres of sewers across London and the Thames Valley so our teams often come across unusual items in the system.
‘While these discoveries can be surprising, it's an important reminder that only the three Ps - pee, poo and toilet paper - should be flushed down the loo.
“When flushed, wet wipes, sanitary products and cotton buds cause blockages, leading to sewer flooding of homes, pollution to local rivers and disruption for customers and the environment.
‘By putting them in the bin instead, everyone can help keep our sewers flowing and prevent damage to homes and rivers.
“To provide some context on how big the issue is we remove 1,000 tonnes of un-flushable material from just one of our sewage treatment works every month.
“While we've seen plenty of strange things over the years inside our sewers, it goes without saying we ask people not to dispose of their TVs or any other household items down the drain.
‘On the rare occasions we find animals in the sewer network, our teams work with specialist rescue organisations wherever possible to help ensure they are recovered safely and receive any care they need.”