WATER stocks look to be large enough to see the Lancashire through the summer, thanks to less being wasted - and a two-week downpour in May.

Despite the recent hot weather, North West reservoirs are just over 90 per cent full, compared to 70 per cent this time last year.

And North West Water's water supply general manager John Barnes, stressed: "This is good news for the region, especially following the unusually dry April."

Water stocks were boosted by heavy rain in the first two weeks of May, together with a 665 million litres a day reduction in leaks and increased conservation by customers.

North West Water has managed to tackle leaks more quickly, thanks to calls to its free Leakline.

But Mr Barnes also thanked customers for using water wisely. He added: "We recognise that in this hot weather gardens need watering, but we hope customers will remember just how much water hosepipes and sprinklers use - a sprinkler left running for just one hour uses as much water as a family of four uses in a day."

North West Water's free guides on saving water are available from the company by telephoning 0645 543210.

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