MORE rain is needed to top up local water supplies, Severn Trent has warned.

Although there has been some rain recently the water company said it would take more than a few showers to top up reservoir levels.

Severn Trent is therefore asking customers to use water wisely and help conserve supply.

Martin Kane, customer relations director for Severn Trent, said: "The weather throughout March and April has been exceptionally dry, and we are doing everything we can to actively manage the balance between our reservoir, river and groundwater supplies. "More rain isn’t a popular idea but it is what we need, preferably spread over several days and weeks, so the reservoirs across the region can top up."

Mr Kane recommended taking showers instead of baths, fixing dripping taps and resisting the temptation to use a hosepipe when watering the garden or washing the car.