A new water fountain was unveiled in Kingston Town Centre today (March 22) in a bid to reduce plastic waste.

The fountain, located in Kingston Town Market Place, is the first of a number of new fountains to be installed across the borough.

It was officially opened to the public Friday by Councillor Caroline Kerr, Chair of the Kingston Town Neighbourhood Committee.

Cllr Kerr said: "I am delighted Kingston is playing a role in helping reduce plastic waste.

"By providing public drinking fountains and re-introducing on-street recycling bins, we will be doing our bit to protect our precious environment."

The first person to use the new fountain was Councillor Jon Tolley, Portfolio Holder for Resident Engagement, who has campaigned for the new fountain.

Cllr Tolley said: "Water fountains not only help reduce unnecessary plastic waste, but also provide clean and readily available drinking water for rough sleepers, cyclists, families, my favourite springer spaniel, and anyone else.

"After years of campaigning, I’m happy the first of several public water fountains is finally in place."

Kingston Council said that the introduction of more public water fountains was one of a number of initiatives the council hoped would reduce plastic waste in the borough.

The Council is also encouraging the use of collapsible, reusable bottles which were given out at the unveiling to promote the Go Cycle programme.