Millions told: Cut water use

MILLIONS of people have been told to reduce their water usage as the reservoir supplying them is almost empty – despite recent heavy rainfall.

Thirlmere in the Lake District has been supplying Greater Manchester since the 1800s. But it is only 40 per cent full – compared with 78 per cent this time last year.

United Utilities, which operates the supply, has emailed two million people, telling them: “It’s really important you do all you can to save water.

“A simple way to make a big impact is to spend one minute less in the shower – that will save 12 litres a day, enough for 48 cups of tea.”

The company blamed an increased use of water by people working from home.