AN Ipswich entrepreneur who has invented a bottle which can save lives by filtering dirty water today told of his pride at enjoying a reception with the Prime Minister.

AN Ipswich entrepreneur who has invented a bottle which can save lives by filtering dirty water today told of his pride at enjoying a reception with the Prime Minister.

Michael Pritchard, chief executive officer of Lifesaver Systems, based in Tuddenham Avenue, attended the Downing Street event, which celebrated the innovation of entrepreneurs across the UK.

Mr Prichard invented the Lifesaver Bottle, which uses a highly advanced filtration system to instantly remove bacteria, viruses and parasites from liquid, creating safe drinking water without the use of foul tasting chemicals such as chlorine or iodine.

It was inspired by the problems caused by lack of safe drinking water in the aftermath of both the tsunami in December 2004 and hurricane Katrina in August 2005.

Mr Pritchard said he took the opportunity to explain to Mr Brown the challenges faced by small businesses.

He said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to demonstrate the Lifesaver Bottle to the Prime Minister.

“I invented it to help save lives and feel confident that with a little help from the government we will be ready to respond to the next floods that will hit the UK and other countries.”

Mr Brown praised the invention, adding: “I was grateful for the chance to personally thank Michael, and others like him, for all they do to make our country stronger.”

Ipswich's MP Chris Mole, who also attended the event on Monday, said: “The Lifesaver Bottle is a fantastic piece of technology that has the potential to make a real difference to thousands of lives.”

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