Thames Water's London On Tap campaign, which promotes tap water across the capital, was this week awarded a 'Big Tick' from Business in the Community, the UK's most influential, independent, peer-assessed corporate responsibility awards.

The Proctor & Gamble 'Big Tick' for Responsible Marketing was presented at the London Excellence Awards in Whitechapel. It was awarded to Thames Water for the campaign's positive impact  on the community, environment and marketplace and follows the company's recent success in the Business in The Community Corporate Responsibility Index, climbing from silver to gold status in just one year.

The award also comes ahead of the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI)'s annual report, which is expected to rate Thames tap water at 99.99% complaint with stringent national and European standards.

David Owens, Chief Executive of Thames Water, said:

"London's tap water is among the best in the world. We're extremely proud of this and through London On Tap wanted to make it more accessible to people in London when they're out for a meal or drink. Our carafe for London - Tap Top which is now available to buy is helping us to do just that".

"The campaign has been a real success and during the past year we've seen a real change in behaviour as consumers have become more confident about asking for tap water when dining out in the capital. The campaign is even being replicated across Europe with the help and advice of our award-winning London On Tap team.

"It's a real achievement that Londoners now recognise they have a choice about what they drink. Winning a 'Big Tick' award is a great accolade".

Stephen Howard, Chief Executive, Business in the Community said:

"Thames Water has created a strong and imaginative campaign with London on Tap. It has had a significant impact in raising awareness of the benefits of drinking tap water for consumers and the environment. Not only has the campaign created a legacy in London, but has also had an impact internationally. I congratulate Thames Water for successfully challenging misconceptions around tap water and at the same time generating clear benefits for the business."

As a 'Big Tick' winner, London On Tap has been shortlisted for the Proctor & Gamble Responsible  Marketing and Innovation National Example of Excellence Award, where it will compete with Cadbury Plc, Camelot Group Plc and Co-Operative Financial Services. The Prince of Wales will announce the winner on July 6.

The 'Big Tick' awards run in association with the Financial Times and recognise and celebrate those companies who have shown innovation, creativity and a sustained commitment to corporate responsibility.

The London On Tap campaign is a collaboration between Thames Water and the Mayor of London to promote the serving to tap water in London's restaurants, bars and hotels. Launched in February 2008, the campaign and has gained the backing of celebrity chefs, environmental groups, and even the House of Lords, with
thousands of restaurants and bars pledging their support.

London tap water costs less than a tenth of a penny per litre and its production, packaging and distribution emits 300 times less CO2 than bottled water alternatives.