South East Water is hoping to get early autumn rain in order to replenish its aquifers, which provide 75% of the company’s supply.

Groundwater levels reached record low levels earlier in the year and are still recovering from the drought, which was caused by two consecutive dry winters. South East Water imposed a hose-pipe ban on its customers early in the summer but lifted it in July.

The company said while most aquifers are approaching normal levels, some of the deeper aquifers are still very parched. The company’s reservoirs are full after the wet summer.

Lee Dance, Head of Water Resources and Environmental, said:

“While restrictions have been removed and our water resources are in a much better place than they were, we must be prudent and are asking our customers to still do their bit to use water wisely, especially if we have another dry Autumn and Winter.”

In a bid to promote water efficiency, the utility has involved itself with the local community.

South East Water is touring over 50 primary schools in its supply area during October and November with a new play that teaches pupils about the importance of saving water in their homes and encouraging their families to be water savers.

It also worked closely with the Turfgrass Growers Association during the drought and temporary use ban and is supporting its Autumn campaign, which aims to promote the responsible use of water in the garden.