Bath and NE Somerset residents are paying the highest water bills in the whole country, new figures show.

Average Wessex Water bills will top £500 for the first time ever this spring adding extra pressure to hard-up households during the cost-of-living crisis. In contrast Northumbrian Water customers are set to pay just £391.

The "West premium" for utilities continues to mean residents fork out more for basics than elsewhere in the country. Standing charges for electricity are 52p a day compared to 33p in London.

Water UK have warned that households in England will see the largest increase to their water bills in almost 20 years from April. Wessex bills will rise by up to 9% and South West Water bills by 2%.

The bill hike comes amid mounting concerns over the failure of water companies to address issues including illegal sewage spills and leaks.

Dan Norris, West of England Metro Mayor, said: "It costs more to turn on the tap and flush the loo in the West. Over £100 more than some other parts of the country. That's unfair on hard pressed local residents. Water is essential for everyone so no-one should need to worry about being able to afford their bill. These increases will bring more uncertainty to hard-pressed Bath and NE Somerset households."