IN a time of Government warnings about water shortages, a group of Ely residents have said they are baffled by a leak that has seen gallons of water lost over three weeks. High Barns residents have complained to Anglian Water about the leak, pictured, wh

IN a time of Government warnings about water shortages, a group of Ely residents have said they are baffled by a leak that has seen gallons of water lost over three weeks.

High Barns residents have complained to Anglian Water about the leak, pictured, which runs alongside five houses.

Among them is Pearl Statham, who said: "It really smells out there because of this water."

An Anglian Water spokesman said the leak would be repaired today (Thursday).

"Leaks of this priority are usually repaired within 10 days of them being reported, according to our system we are carrying out the work one day earlier than this."

Anglian Water also offered the following advice for keeping cool and saving water.

"It's very important to keep cool. Drink plenty of water - ours is among some of the best in the world. It helps to keep you cool, it makes you more alert and energetic and it's much cheaper than anything in the shops. Water usage, however, is shooting up so if people can try and stagger how they use their water, for example, don't all jump in the shower at the same time. We try to encourage people to recycle water - if you have filled up a paddling pool for children then why not use this water for the garden instead of using a hose."

Medical professionals have highlighted the impact of soaring temperatures on our health this week, and the county council has issued advice on how to cope with what looks set to be the hottest summer on record.

"The most important thing to remember in the hot weather is to drink lots of water and to have plenty of water with you when driving," a spokesman said yesterday.

"Even though your journey may not be long, a single bottle of water doesn't last long if you find yourself in a hold-up.

"Remember also that young children become easily distressed in hot cars, so it is important to keep them as cool and as calm as possible.