THAMES Water says last year was the third driest on record.

The firm, which supplies Swindon, is urging customers to use supplies wisely, in spite of the current rain.

Last year saw the south west receive only 552mm of rain 74 per cent of the yearly average of 746mm.

It was the driest year on record since 1973 and the third driest since reliable records began in 1897.

The driest year was 1921, when rainfall totalled 419mm.

Throughout 2003, only Jan-uary and November saw average or above average rainfall, while August and September were the driest since measurements started.

The firm's water supply manager, Mark Malcolm, said: "The winter has so far brought welcome rain for the area, but there is still some way to go before we make up the deficit from the long, dry summer and autumn.

"Although the rainfall has helped boost levels in the region's rivers and reservoirs, our groundwater sources remain below average.

"We need to see a lot more winter rainfall, or the possibility will remain of restrictions later in the year."

Tips include using a bucket instead of a hose when washing cars, taking showers not baths, ensuring the washing machine has a full load before use and not brushing teeth or washing vegetables under running taps.