WATERAID campaigner Dave Shurlock made a Big Stink at Jeremy Hunt’s constituency surgery in Godalming – presenting the South West Surrey MP with a report on the global sanitation crisis.

The Big Stink report remembers when Mr Hunt’s predecessors in the House of Commons were so disgusted by the smell of effluent in the River Thames, they resolved to build London’s first proper system of sewers – which are still in use today.

Now exactly 150 years since the system opened WaterAid is highlighting the sanitation problems still endured by 2.5 billion people in the developing world.

Mr Shurlock, from Farnham, said: “I told Mr Hunt that there are a billion people in the developing world who have no option but to defecate in the open.

“But there are global plans set for approval by the UN that aim to reach everyone everywhere with safe water and sanitation by 2030. I thanked Mr Hunt for the Government’s leading role in the negotiations.”

He added: “The UK is a world leader in international development – a record to be proud of.

“Our government could move towards ending aid dependency by working more with developing countries to deliver and sustain their own water, sanitation and hygiene services.

“Mr Hunt has written to Justine Greening, Secretary of State for International Development, on the subject.”

For a copy of the Big Stink report or for an illustrated talk on the work of WaterAid for a school, youth or community group visit www.wateraidwestsur rey.org or call Mr Shurlock on 07934 839608.

lMr Hunt hosts regular surgeries to give residents the opportunity to discuss any issues or problems they may be experiencing.

They are held in rotation at his office in Hindhead, Sainsbury’s in Godalming and Sainsbury’s in South Street, Farnham.

To find out where and when the MP’s next surgery is call 01428 609416 to book a 10-minute appointment. Alternatively, email [email protected] or write to 2, Royal Parade, Tilford Road, Hindhead, Surrey, GU26 6TD.