A Pocklington couple whose ingenious invention has won multiple awards have ended the year on “an amazing high”, with increasing sales across the UK, Europe and New Zealand.
Belle and Jason Richardson, who own and run a farm, have created SealStop, which is an automatic shut-off device designed to save water.
SealStop acts as a portable ballcock, which allows you to keep a tap or hose running and walk away, without the risk of overfilling your container.
Belle Richardson explained: “What an extraordinary and wonderful year it’s been. From winning multiple awards for exceptional customer service and for business and ecological innovation to TV appearances, podcasts and pitching in front of incredibly talented people, it’s been full on.
“We’ve been constantly innovating and improving, ironing out the quirks and refining what we do.
“And now? We’re ending the year on a tremendous high with increasing numbers of retailers both in the UK and internationally including in Ireland, Denmark, New Zealand and Germany. Garden centres across the country, here we come.”
Meanwhile Belle commented that 2026 was a crucial one for the UK’s water industry, not least for the much-criticised Yorkshire Water.
“As Yorkshire Water ramps up our bills, pollutes our rivers and fails to invest in its ailing infrastructure, the company must also surely be aware that the world is facing a water crisis.
“By 2030 global freshwater demand is projected to exceed available supply by 40 per cent. This isn’t abstract – it means within just five years, whole regions may be unable to provide enough water for homes, farms, and businesses.
“Water waste was the catalyst for inventing SealStop, my award-winning water-saving device which automatically stops water overflowing from a container.
“I am confident that next year will see our company to continue to make progress, win more awards and help gardeners across the UK to save water and time. SealStop tackles outdoor waste where it’s hardest to control. In my own small way, I will be continuing to help to save the planet next year.”
