NEW research shows two in five people in the south east think water is a plentiful resource.

The findings were released by the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) and back up previous studies by Thames Water.

Karen Gibbs, senior policy manager at CCW, said: “Water companies have a really important role to play in helping customers make the link between the water they use at home and the environment it is taken from.

“All of us need to value water more and just a few small changes in how we use it at home can make a huge difference if we all play our part.”

Thames Water found just 11 per cent of respondents from Oxford always think about the source of their water.

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The survey also found that 54 per cent admit to not being worried about the amount of water they use.

Yvette De Garis, head of environmental engagement at Thames Water, said: “To protect the environment, including precious chalk streams, we have to cut back on the amount of water we take from rivers and aquifers to leave more to help natural ecosystems thrive.

“By helping them link their water use to the environment, we’re confident more people will commit to making small changes that can make a big difference.

“Simple things like only using a dishwasher or washing machine on a full load and fixing dripping taps and leaky loos can all make a huge difference.

“Popping a bucket in the shower while the water warms up and then using it on the plants is another easy win.”