WATER-company bosses say reservoir levels are normal for the time of year despite the district experiencing its driest June for almost a century.

But people are being asked to use water wisely, and take showers rather than baths, to help conserve supplies.

Met Office data shows that only a few millimetres of rainfall was recorded in the district last month, making it the driest June since 1925 – and the third driest since records began in 1911.

Statistics also show that Bradford district experienced its warmest May on record, with the maximum daytime temperature 18.6C, compared to the previous highest, which was 17.4C in May 2006.

Nationally, provisional figures show it was one of the UK's top five warmest June months for maximum daytime and 24-hours average temperatures.

The prolonged warm weather has led to concerns about water restrictions.

However, Paul Hickey, deputy director and head of water resources at the Environment Agency, said: “A natural reduction in river flows and groundwater at this time of year is to be expected and water companies plan for warm months.

“There are no water use restrictions in place, however it is always helpful to follow water company advice and use water wisely.

“At this time of year the Environment Agency is always ready to respond to pressure on rivers caused by low flows and we continue to monitor the situation.”

Yorkshire Water confirmed that its reservoirs were at a normal level for the time of year but it has asked people to take showers instead of baths.

With no rainfall expected this week, its five million customers are being encouraged to use water more wisely to help ensure that increased demand can continue to be met. Customers are also being asked to report a leak if they notice any cracked or burst pipes in their local areas to prevent water being wasted.

A spokesman said: “We are continuing to see increased demand for water in the region due to the hot weather. Over the weekend demand has exceeded 1.5 billion litres a day. This is an increase of 200 million litres – which is more than the daily demand of water for Leeds.

“Whilst demand is presently high, our raw water reservoirs are currently about three-quarters full, which is around the normal level for this time of year.”

Pamela Doherty, director of service delivery at Yorkshire Water, said: “Despite there being no current water shortages, water is a precious resource and we would still encourage everyone to do their bit to help by using water a little more efficiently.

“Our top tips are to limit time spent in the shower to no more than four minutes, use a watering can to water garden plants, and to hold off on cleaning the car but if you have to wash it use just a bucket and sponge.”