TESTING of water quality in Dumbarton and the Vale’s homes is to resume for the first time since lockdown.

Checks were paused during the pandemic but Scottish Water says tests are ready to restart.

Samplers will call at random addresses to take water for testing to make sure it meets high standards.

There were measures in place to take samples in the past year including checking different parts of the network, commercial premises and volunteers’ homes.

The firm says it takes about 15,000 samples at homes each year, with 200,000 tests across their network.

Due to the risk posed by bogus callers, householders are being reminded to always ask for someone’s identity card, including an ID photo matching the person at the door.

Customers can call 0800 0778 778 to check if a caller is genuine.

Scottish Water said 99.9 per cent of water tested in Scotland in 2019-20 met standards.

Samples look for metals and bacteria as well discolouration, taste or odour problems.

Simon Parsons, director of strategic customer service planning, said: “Samples taken from customers’ taps are vital to ensuring water quality is checked and maintained all year round.

“We want customers to be aware the programme is re-starting and that Scottish Water samplers may be calling again to check water quality and we thank the public for participating in this activity.

“Additional precautions will be taken to maintain safety and health.”