Water use warning as reservoir levels decline

Households are being urged to cut back on water use as reservoir levels drop and the risk of restrictions grow.

Thames Water said in areas it serves - including Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Surrey - supplies were "quite low," and a hosepipe ban was under active consideration.

The company said small changes at home could make a big difference.

"We are really concerned about the water we have got and making the best use of it," said Nevil Muncaster, the firm's strategic water resources director.

Mr Muncaster said taking shorter showers could save up to 20 litres per person, while a single leaky toilet might waste as much as 400 litres a day. Running only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines is also encouraged.

The Environment Agency has declared a state of prolonged dry weather across much of the region, raising the likelihood of further action.

A temporary use ban could reduce overall consumption by about 10%, helping stretch supplies through the summer and into autumn, Mr Muncaster told BBC Radio Berkshire.

"We're asking customers to work with us now," he added.

No final decision has been made on a hosepipe ban, but an announcement is expected within the next week.

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