Firm urges people to 'use water wisely' in gardens

People are being urged to "use water wisely" in gardens as dry and warm weather continues in Yorkshire.

Reservoir levels are almost 15% lower than average for this time of year, Yorkshire Water said, after the region experienced its driest combined February, March and April for 90 years.

Andy Shaw, the firm's head of water production, said warm weather and the bank holiday weekend would likely result in an increase in water use in gardens.

"There are a variety of simple steps people can take to ensure they are making the most of the weather and their garden but not dramatically increasing the amount of water they use," he said.

The water company said recent rising temperatures had caused an increase in usage, with an additional 80 million litres provided each day.

This was the equivalent of Harrogate and York's daily usage, it said.

Just 78mm (3in) of rainfall has been recorded at Sheffield's Weston Park weather station since the start of February - the lowest since 1938.

"During warmer months, when there is less rainfall but more water being used for gardens and paddling pools, saving water is even more important," the firm said.

It encouraged gardeners to use a watering can instead of a hose, water plants using leftover water from the washing up bowl and to water plants early in the morning or in the evening to avoid it evaporating.

Layers of leaves, bark or compost over flower beds help to retain water and reduce watering, it added.