A BATH that can be programmed to fill itself could prove to be a Big Idea for a man from Selby.

Jay Commins came up with the novel idea of a bath that will automatically fill itself with water at the perfect temperature and at the ideal depth for the (lazy) bather.

He sent the idea through to Sky One's The Big Idea TV programme as a bit of fun, and was shocked to hear that his idea was one of 20 short-listed for the final competition.

Jay said: "I've always dreamed of having a bath that is filled at the perfect temperature and stays hot, so I put the idea forward to the programme, and it seems that they like the idea. People are now invited to visit the website to vote on their favourite concept, and the three ideas that get the most votes go through to the TV final next week - which is quite a nerve-racking prospect!"

He says he idea for the bath combines safety with luxury - because the latest reports from RoSPA suggest that about 500 children per year are scalded by water that is too hot in the bath. I know from my own experience with my three year old daughter how difficult it is to get the perfect temperature," he said.

"But my concept bath would allow you to pre-programme the bath to the perfect temperature for a number of different users."

The concept also includes a unit which will keep the water in the bath at the same temperature for the duration of the bath for those who like to soak until their fingers shrivel. As an added indulgent extra, Jay's idea includes an automatic dispenser of bubble bath or essential oils to make the bathing experience as pleasant as possible.

Voting is open to any member of the public by visiting www.thebigidea.tv website, and clicking on the "What's your big idea?" link. All votes for the final three ideas have to be registered by tomorrow.