by Martin Jefferies

Experts have urged people in Kent to conserve water at home and in the garden, amid fears the recent dry weather could have serious consequences for fish, birds and insects.

Despite recent downpours, the county has seen only around half its usual rainfall in May, with river flows "particularly low" for this time of year.

The Upper Stour and the Medway are among those struggling, with fish species including sea trout and salmon especially vulnerable.

The Environment Agency has stepped up its monitoring of Kent rivers but also wants people in the county to follow simple water-saving tips.

Turning off taps while brushing your teeth, shaving or washing your hands can save up to five litres of water per minute, while using a watering can instead of a hosepipe can greatly reduce water consumption.

Trevor Bishop, head of water resources, said: "Low river flows can harm wildlife, as fish and other animals get trapped upstream, so we're working with farmers and others to balance the water needs of people, businesses and the environment.

"It's important that we all use precious water wisely at all times of the year, especially during dry periods."

The Environment Agency insists wildlife in Kent has not been affected so far and there is currently no impact to the public water supply.

However, it has already been forced to take emergency action to save fish stocks elsewhere in the country.

In Hertfordshire, fish trapped in pools have been moved to deeper water using an electric current, while in Lincolnshire, ground water has been pumped into the river to increase its flow - a measure normally reserved for the summer months.

Anglers, dog walkers and ramblers have been urged to report suspected pollution incidents or signs of fish in distress.

The Environment Agency's 24-hour incident hotline is 0800 807 060.

• Dry summer threatens farmers