THE two top-up water taps in Inverclyde have dispensed almost 16,000 litres in just a few months.

Scottish Water's taps at Gourock waterfront and Clyde Square in Greenock are proving increasingly popular with thirsty drinkers.

From May to August, the former dispensed almost 9,000 litres while the Clyde Square one served up 7,099 litres.

Scottish Water says its network of top-up taps has sparked a 19 per cent increase in people carrying a refillable bottle.

The local taps have filled up enough for almost 12,000 water bottles.

Brian Lironi, director of corporate affairs at Scottish Water, said: “It’s brilliant that so many locals and visitors alike are using our Top Up Taps in such numbers.

“But nothing would make us happier than seeing them used even more. There couldn’t be many better reasons for carrying a refillable water bottle and topping up when you’re out and about – it’s good for your health, good for your pocket and good for the planet.”

Since launching the initiative in 2018, the 100 taps across the country have topped up the equivalent of nearly six million single use plastic bottles.