Thirsty Planet was launched by Harrogate-based Waterbrands on March 22 last year to stop people dying from disease and dehydration.

Since its launch, Thirsty Planet has secured a 65 per cent share of the "ethical" water market in its first year, generating £370,000 to help more than 750,000 people.

For every multipack of 8x500ml or 6x1.5ltr bottles of Thirsty Planet sold, 50p is given to the charity Pump Aid which helps villagers to dig wells and install cheap and easy-to-operate "elephant"pumps.

Contributions from every bottle sold also pays for the pumps, which are easy to repair and maintain.

Waterbrands, which is best known for Harrogate Spa Water, employs 40 people and has an annual turnover of £7m.

Paul Martin, managing director of Waterbrands, said: "The success of this first year is fantastic, and a great start towards reaching our goal.

"While our business has obviously had a terrific 12 months, the fact that we've gone on to help threequarters of a million people makes the achievement that much more enjoyable."

The success of Thirsty Planet is also helping to drive growth in the otherwise stagnant bottled water market.

"The recent outcry over bottles and food miles has led to a backlash in the media against all bottled water," said Mr Martin. "It seems to be singled out for criticism, but it is not the only product packaged in plastic or transported in bulk.

"What is rarely mentioned is the fact that 85 per cent of bottled water drunk in the UK comes from sustainable, natural sources and that 75 per cent is sourced here in Britain.

"Thirsty Planet certainly falls into both categories. It's easy
to forget that water remains an incredibly precious resource for millions of people across the globe, yet one we largely take for granted on these shores.

"It's scandalous that in the 21st century there are a billion people on the earth who are still having to rely on dirty, contaminated water, when it costs only £250 to install a well and a pump that will serve a community of 500.

"This work will ensure a clean water source and prevent thousands of under-fives from dying."

World Water Day, which is being marked on Saturday, is a day of observance to draw attention to the plight of people who are without access to clean, safe drinking water.

The event was born out of a United Nations conference on Environment and Development in 1992. The General Assembly passed a resolution stating that March 22 should be a day devoted to discussions about water-related issues, such as supply and sanitation.