Region's reservoirs well stocked say SWW

Water supplies in the South West are looking healthy as thousands of tourists head to the region for the start of the summer holidays.

South West Water, which provides clean drinking water to homes across Devon and Cornwall, expects this year to be its 18th consecutive year without water restrictions.

Total storage in the region's 21 reservoirs now stands at 90% compared to 83% at this time last year. Ground water sources supplying most of East Devon are also high.

South West Water's overall drinking water quality remains good after the Drinking Water Inspectorate reported a compliance rate of 99.98% to its tough quality standards during 2013.

The company's Operations Director Dr Stephen Bird said: "The summer months are very important to the South West's tourist economy and we're pleased to play our part ensuring the holidays run smoothly for everyone by keeping our water supplies secure. The demand for water rises by up to a third during the busiest summer weeks.

"But it's important to remember there have been no water restrictions in our operational area since 1996 and we expect this to continue this year. We should all remember the value of water and conserving it when we can. Reducing water use helps the region but it also helps you cut your water bill if you're on a meter."

Since the infamous 1976 drought, regional water storage capacity has been quadrupled and dozens of connecting pipes have made it easier to move water around the 10,000 mile long main network. South West Water also converted two china clay pits on Bodmin Moor into reservoirs - Park and Stannon Lake - which secure Cornwall's water supply for generations to come.

You can read more about saving water and order a free water-saving device at www.southwestwater.co.uk/freekit.