The reservoir has been hit by one of the driest years on record

There has been less rain so far than during the last major drought in 1995.

While reservoirs still have sufficient supplies for the time being, the water company is saying a dry winter could cause problems.

They are asking both business and domestic users to be aware of how much water they use and think of ways of using less.

One of the driest years on record was 1959, when just over 498 millimmetres (19.61 inches) fell, while so far in 2003, only 400.6 millimetres (15.77 inches)of rain has been recorded.

Built 11 years ago at a cost of �100m, Carsington Reservoir in Derbyshire is one of the major suppliers of water to the East Midlands.

Saving Water Turn off taps while using basin Always use a full load in the dishwasher or washing machine Try to take showers rather than a bath Collect water in a butt and don't water plants in the sun - it evaporates If washing a car, use a bucket and sponge, not a hose Report leaks promptly

Currently it is at 80% capacity - compared to 30% during the 1995 drought.

But experts are saying this should not mean people are complacent about their supplies.

Mike Yates from Severn Trent Water said: "But our other reservoirs are only 50% full, so we have to be careful.

"It is cause to be careful, rather than cause for concern - at the moment."

The low rainfall has had a serious effect on businesses.

Reinhard Biehler of Baytree Nursery near Spalding in Lincolnshire said: "The water here in Lincolnshire is salty so we don't have any boreholes.

"All our water comes from the rain or from the tap water, so this makes it very expensive."