An Oxfordshire company held a "Ladies Day" tuition course to teach them how to tackle day-to-day plumbing problems so they don't need to call for help.

The day-long course was fully booked. Ten women paid £35 for tuition from plumbing experts at the offices of Peoples Plumbers in Church Lane, Steventon.

The course covered practical lessons on domestic plumbing. They learned how to cure air locks and solve central heating problems.

Company director Rory Mitchell: "With the current focus on water conservation, it is more important than ever to reduce water wastage. Just a dripping tap can account for a staggering 2,700 gallons in a year.

"All you need are the right tools, the right approach and a little time."

Mr Mitchell said the course did not aim to teach someone how to renovate an entire bathroom or install a central heating system but to give people the opportunity pick up trade tips.

He said they had received requests to run a course mainly from women at home wanting to know how to fix basic problems.

Mr Mitchell added: "I don't think we will lose business. All we are doing is removing some of the mysteries behind plumbing, teaching people the basics.

"There will always be a need for the professional plumber to help with major problems."

Jo Noble from Lockinge said: "It was extremely valuable and demystified plumbing.

"I am more confident now of tackling problems like a loose basin tap and a leaking tap in the kitchen, but I will still probably need more expert advice on major things like central heating."

Mr Mitchell added: "We haven't forgotten the boys. We are considering running the same course for them later in the year."