A CAMPAIGN to get schoolchildren to drink more water, is drawing to a close.

But Kirklees schools still wanting to take part can do so.

Yorkshire Water's Cool Schools campaign has been tackling the issue of dehydration in primary school children since it was launched in 2002.

Fifty-one Kirklees schools have received the Cool Fuel water coolers into their classrooms.

And there are still another 50 up for grabs for schools which want to get involved.

Co-ordinator Louise

Bradbury said: "Since 2002, we have installed 1,300 water coolers in more than half the primary schools across Yorkshire, while shows by our own performer S-Cool and an interactive website have helped to ensure an estimated 200,000 children have heard or seen the message that proper hydration is vital."

She said Yorkshire Water would not be turning its back on schools once all the water coolers had been taken up.

"We will still be willing to put them in touch with suppliers who can fit water coolers."

Dr Martin Schweiger, consultant in communicable diseases with the Leeds Health Protection Agency, was among the experts to inspire Cool Schools following research by the Leeds Metropolitan University.

He said: "Access to a drinking water used to be nothing short of appalling, with

children forced to slurp from taps in the changing rooms or toilets.

"The Cool Schools campaign has played a big part in educating both children and their parents about the benefits of proper hydration.

"Although pop may still have a place as a treat, it's encouraging to hear a growing number of children putting chilled tap water on their list of favourite drinks."

Email: Cool.Schools@ yorkshirewater.com