SCOTTISH Water has issued guidance on how to conserve water as the Borders records below average reservoir storage levels.

Nationally reservoir storage levels are at 81 per cent, the average for this time of year, however the Borders levels are below average with reservoirs being topped up by alternative sources to ensure customers' supplies.

In response to current water levels Scottish Water is reminding householders of all the ways to save water, including by:

· taking shorter showers

· turning the tap off when brushing teeth

· using washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded

· using a watering can instead of a garden hose.

· and using a bucket and sponge rather than a hose to wash the car.

To combat lower water levels, Scottish Water is deploying tankers to supplement supplies and adjusting its network to redistribute water around Scotland.

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, said: “We remain absolutely focused on ensuring customer supplies are maintained especially where the warm, dry weather has been experienced over a more prolonged period.

“Public water supply supports daily life around the clock and our national reservoir storage remains at a level where we can continue to meet requirements. We have seen water demand peaks, particularly around hot weekends, and customers can play an important role in how we manage our country’s water resources.

“Water is always worth saving, not just in the summer months, so we would ask all householders to do all they can in and around the home to help us maintain water flowing to their taps. By taking simple steps to reduce the volume used around the home and garden, we can make our country’s water go even further.”

For more water saving tips and further information on water efficiency, visit: www.scottishwater.co.uk/savewater.