LETTERS have been sent to all Thames Water customers updating them on the drought.

They have started arriving on 3.5 million doormats across London and the Thames Valley, including Swindon.

Thames Water's chief executive Jeremy Pelczer said: "I know customers expect to be kept fully informed about what we are doing to beat the drought.

"My letter is also a personal thank you for the positive response we have seen to our appeals for water conservation.

"Despite the recent rain, the long term drought remains very serious, so we do need everyone to keep saving water wherever they can, not only to protect the environment but also to help reduce the potential need for more serious restrictions later in the year."

Mr Pelczer said the company is fixing 200 leaks a day and is working to fix what he called unacceptably high leakages in London.

The letter can also be found at www.thameswater.co.uk. The company has also set up a line for inquires related to the drought. It is on 0800 316 0989 and is free from landlines.