Burrator Reservoir falls to 41 per cent capacity as heatwave continues

A "drowned village" has become visible for the first time as a reservoir falls to its lowest level in five years.

Burrator Reservoir in Devon has dropped to 41 per cent capacity - but water bosses say customers should not be concerned.

South West Water says its total reservoir storage is still around 78 per cent.

Rob Scarrott, head of environment, said: “We’re still working hard behind the scenes to meet the increased demand for water during the prolonged hot weather.

“While demand is still higher than normal for this time of year, we have seen a slight reduction in consumption over the last week and we would like to thank customers who have been using water wisely.

“With the hot weather set to stay for a while, everyone can do their bit and save money by being water wise, particularly in the garden, which typically accounts for much of the additional demand we see during hot weather.”