SCHOOLS are being challenged to look out for pipes in danger of freezing during the cold winter months.

Prizes worth more than £500 are up for grabs in the competition, which was launched today by Yorkshire Water.

The "Lag Tag" campaign encourages schools to identify pipework which, if left unlagged, could freeze when the heating is switched off for the holidays, with potentially costly and messy results.

Schools are asked to mark any vulnerable water pipe, such as an outside tap or pipe in a disused room or cellar, with a "Lag Tag" to remind them it could freeze if it gets too cold.

Every school that submits a photograph of the tagged pipe to Yorkshire Water could win a prize.

Competition organiser Claire Smith said: "We hope that by identifying exposed water pipes schools can understand the need to lag certain water pipes over the cold winter months, to prevent frost damage."

A water expert will spend time with the winners, and carry out a special audit of their water facilities, suggesting how the school can protect itself against frost-induced damage.

"They will also be given hints and tips about how to save water, reduce bills and generally look after all their water and waste water needs," she said.

The winning schools will also receive 20 savaflush devices for their toilets, and 100 water bottles for the children.