The region has had one of the driest years since records began

The Environment Agency has agreed to give South East Water a drought permit, which allows it to draw more water from rivers.

The move will allow the company to conserve precious water stocks in its Ardingly and Arlington reservoirs.

But, said the agency, the potentially increased abstraction in the Ouse and Cuckmere valleys "must have some effect upon our river systems and the life within them".

Water conservation tips Take a shower instead of a bath Wash your car with a bucket instead of a hose Use your washing machine only when you have a full load Fit a water-saving device in your toilet cistern Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving

Dave Watson, area environment manager for the Environment Agency, said the decision to grant the permit followed some of the driest months in the region since records began in 1897.

"Whilst the environment generally has stood up well to these dry conditions, water supply reserves in the Ouse and Cuckmere have now got very low," he said.

"The Environment Agency must weigh up the balance between our water supply and environmental needs.

"In the interim we can all do our bit by using less water."

The Environment Agency has warned that unless rainfall is 20% higher than average this winter there could be water shortages and drought next year.

It said the refilling of groundwater, or subterranean, supplies across the south is likely to be "uncharacteristically late and poor" in many places.

Groundwater levels in the chalk which underlies much of the region are especially low, with parts of the South Downs now close to the lowest levels on record.