RESIDENTS are puzzled after water levels in Hanningfield Reservoir, which lies between Wickford and Chelmsford, are at a mysteriously low level. 

A dog walker who regularly visits the reservoir told how they've never seen such low levels.

He also referred to the anomaly as "slightly worrying", and questioned where the water had gone. 

But Essex and Suffolk Water, the company that manages the site, said the low water levels were to be expected, after an "exceptionally dry and hot three months."

The company will continue to closely monitor the situation. 

 Alan Fortune, 56, of Goodview Road, Billericay, said: "I've been walking over here for years but I've not seen it this low before.

"It's very odd. And slightly worrying.

"It's not like it's been hot recently either, wonder where all that water has gone?"

Will Robinson, water resources manager, at Essex and Suffolk Water, said: "The water level at Hanningfield Reservoir is currently significantly below average.

"This follows an exceptionally dry and hot three months, which has seen an increase in demand for water in the area and reduced availability of water in the rivers that fill the reservoir. 

“At this time of year, we expect our reservoirs to reach their lowest levels following the summer months.

"Under normal weather conditions we would anticipate Hanningfield Reservoir starting to refill in the traditionally wetter winter months. 

"We will continue to carefully monitor water resources across our supply area.”