Irvine and Kilwinning residents are being asked to help take care of the vital drinking water resources we all rely on by making small changes.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is warning of an increasing water scarcity situation as Ayrshire moves to 'alert level' of supplies.

Changing weather patterns caused by climate change means water scarcity will become more common in Scotland.

Scottish Water is calling on customers to help protect water supplies and use water more efficiently by taking shorter showers, turning the tap off when brushing teeth, using washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded, and using a watering can instead of a garden hose.

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, said: “We encourage our customers across the country to be more water efficient throughout the year, for the benefit of maintaining supplies, protecting a precious natural resource by reducing water wastage, and keeping more water in our natural environment, all while helping to reduce our carbon footprint.

SEPA is providing information for businesses that abstract water year-round on actions to take as resources reach critically low levels.

Businesses looking for information on water scarcity and meeting licence conditions urged to contact SEPA at WaterScarcity@sepa.org.uk
More information on water scarcity can be found at sepa.org.uk/water-scarcity