SOUTH West Water is offering people the chance to discover the hidden secrets of the region's largest reservoir.

The company is offering free guided tours of Roadford Dam on Friday, September 7 as part of this year's Heritage Open Days programme.

After walking through the dam, which impounds water from the River Wolf to form a reservoir with an enormous net storage of 34,500 megalitres, visitors will scale 170 steps to the top of the valve tower.

The steep climb is physically demanding, and might not be suitable for people with heart conditions, women in the late stages of pregnancy or anyone with vertigo.

Visitors are also recommended to wear appropriate footwear. For those able to take up the challenge, the tour offers a unique view of the reservoir.

Head of drinking water services, James King, said: 'This summer was our 16th successive summer without water restrictions and Roadford continues to play an important role by providing a secure water supply to large parts of our region over 20 years after it was built.

'To mark this achievement we are inviting members of the public to see for themselves how we manage such a key water source.'

After the tour visitors can explore the Visitor Centre managed by environmental and recreational charity South West Lakes Trust.

Places on the free tours are limited and must be pre-booked.

Tours run from 10am to 4pm and last an hour.

To book your place, please contact South West Water's communications team on 01392 443020.