Saving water, one drop at a time

Bamford’s Waterblade Easy was designed by inventor Nigel Bamford with assistance from the University of Brighton’s Green Growth Platform and Innovate UK.

The product reduces water consumption by up to twice as much as a standard eco aerating nozzle. It works by taking a trickle of water and shaping it into a paper-thin sheet through which you can wash your hands or toothbrush.

Nigel’s design was featured on BBC programme Dragons’ Den last year, with Deborah Meaden considering investing in the product before recommending Nigel retained a higher share in it than the 50:50 split she proposed.

Now, after raising more than £15,500 through business funding website Indiegogo, the first production models have arrived.

Zoe Osmond, Director of the Green Growth Platform, said it had been rewarding to see the product come to fruition.

She said: “Nigel has been a very active member of the Green Growth Platform since we launched in 2014.

Nigel Bamford

“It has been fascinating to watch him grow from a passionate innovator with a great idea to where he is now, having set up a successful technology company selling his water-saving nozzle at volume to all sorts of customers, from multinational corporates to local home-owners.”

Nigel has collaborated with staff at the University of Brighton over the last few years, Zoe added.

She said: “Nigel first came to us seeking product development support and University of Brighton product design staff worked closely with him to create the very first prototype.

“Since then Nigel has accessed a whole host of support from the Platform including access to industry connections and advice on raising investment, commercialisation and gaining industry the all-important accreditation.”