OVER the past few months, we have heard dire warnings about forthcoming problems with water supply in the county.

Undoubtedly the current drought will cause shortages which will need tackling and fast.

In this country – unlike many hotter climates – we have got all too used to taking our water for granted.

Clearly there are ways in which we all could, and should, cut down.

However, apart from water shortages Thames Water finds itself trying to tackle a problem of public relations.

Just a few weeks ago the firm was in the news after a massive pipe burst, flooding homes, cars and gardens in South Hinksey.

It has also, it is claimed, been threatening at least one local cricket club with fines.

Now it is calling on the goodwill of people to obey the hosepipe ban.

Of course people will — and indeed should – abide by the rules.

But Thames Water shouldn’t underestimate how hard it will be for gardeners, allotment holders and local sports teams.

The firm may be on target with its bid to cut down leaks.

But 600 million litres lost a day is still a phenomenal amount of water.

We hope the firm puts in as much effort to cut this figure down as the people of Oxford will to stop using their hosepipes.