Further steps have been taken to reduce the number of wipes being wrongly flushed down Scotland's toilets.

A new industry standard has been introduced to let consumers know what products contain plastic and will break down in the sewer system, instead of clogging up sewers and contributing to fatbergs.

An official water industry 'Fine to Flush' symbol will be put on packing that passes strict scientific tests.

Scottish Water welcomed the announcement made by Water UK.

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “The new standard will significantly contribute to reducing the number of chokes in the network, reduce the amount of sewage related debris released to the environment and raise awareness that plastic items should not be flushed down the toilet.

“I would encourage customers who use wipes to look out for the new logo on these products. By switching to a product which is biodegradable you can help us maintain the water management cycle more effectively.”

Advice to customers is that only the 3Ps - Pee, Paper and Poo - should be flushed away as they are all biodegrade, while many wipes contain plastic and don't biodegrade

Mr Farrer added: “We all have a part to play in looking after the water cycle. Anything which encourages people to think about their responsibility is welcome. Our sewer response teams deal with the consequences of people flushing the wrong items down the toilet – items like wipes, cotton buds and sanitary products – on a daily basis.

“We hope this new official industry Fine to Flush standard will help cut consumer confusion and lead to a reduction in blockages.”

It is estimated that Scottish Water attends an average of 95 blockages in the sewer system across Scotland every day, at a cost of around £6.5 million a year.

Incorrect items being flushed as well as the incorrect disposal of fats, oils and grease down drains and sinks, can cause real problems across the network.

FOGs congeal when cooled and stick to items which don’t break down in the sewers – preventing the waste water draining away properly and causing 'fatbergs' and polluting local rivers, coastal waters and beaches.