Bristol Water is celebrating the work of two sibling leak inspectors paving the way for women in the water industry.
The Bristolian sisters, Harriet and Daisy Pearce-Lyons, have both “soared in confidence” since starting their roles at the water company.
Both women work in the leakage team and spend their days driving Bristol Water’s efforts to reduce leaks using a specialist range of equipment including, Enigma Pods and Ground Microphones.
The sisters are part of a 40-strong team of leakage experts who work around the clock to ensure water is not wasted on the 7,000km network of pipes supplying over a million people with drinking water each day.
Daisy was first to join Bristol Water in 2022 and then recommended the role to her younger sister, who followed suit in 2024.
The siblings are now hoping to forge a path for women in the traditionally male dominated sector.
Harriet said: “My confidence has massively improved since starting this role. I’m proud to be working in this profession as a woman as it’s still mostly men. It’s a good feeling to be challenging stereotypes and showing others what we can do. We’re treated equally and everyone has been so supportive.
“I love being outside, working with amazing people and learning so much from them. People are always shocked when we tell them about our job as most people have never heard of such a thing! It feels nice to be helping customers and saving water for our community.”
Daisy, a former postwoman, said: “Harriet and I were close growing up, but this job has brought us even closer together. It’s such a unique job. We often get the public coming up to us and asking what we’re doing. They’re always fascinated when we explain what we’re up to and how we find leaks.
“As soon as I stared at Bristol Water my managers were so enthusiastic and encouraging. Their positivity was infectious, I could tell everyone cared about the job. I’d really recommend a role like this for anyone who loves being outside and doing hands on problem solving, or for anyone who struggles to sit behind a desk all day.”
Richard Stanbrook, General Manager of Water Services at Bristol Water, said: “Our leak inspectors do fantastic work over a large network area and we’re especially proud to have Harriet and Daisy on the team.
“Each day they go out into the field and help us save water by identifying leaks while at the same time setting a shining example that these roles are for everyone.”
