WITH the approach of World Water Day (Monday, March 22), I would like to take the opportunity to thank Thames Water customers who have given so generously to our annual appeal on behalf of our principal charity, WaterAid.

In the past 14 years, Thames Water, its suppliers and customers have given nearly £16 million to WaterAid. This has helped over 1.4 million of the poorest people in Africa and Asia to gain access to safe water, effective sanitation and hygiene education.

Last year, Thames Water staff raised nearly £130,000 to support WaterAid's work in Tanzania and our 2003 WaterAid Customer Appeal generated £157,000.

In recent weeks we have again been encouraging our customers to respond to this year's appeal, and have funded its printing and postage. The bright blue leaflet has been enclosed with customers' annual bills. Donations can also be made online at www.wateraid.org. Just £2 a month, over a year, could help provide a lasting supply of safe water for a family. Twice that could train villagers to look after 40 handppumps serving 5,750 people. The support of your readers will help WaterAid to continue to give thousands of people safe, life-saving water.

Linda Maslen

Thames Water Utilities

Clearwater Court

Vastern Road

Reading