West farmers warn they need a month of wet weather

Farmers in the West have said they are concerned over recent low rainfall and "really need about a month of wet weather".

It follows the Environment Agency's confirmation it has been the driest start to spring for nearly 70 years.

Across the region, water companies have said they currently have no supply concerns but Thames Water said it was "not confident we won't have to restrict usage," if the prolonged dry weather continues.

Bath dairy farmer Hugh Padfield said grass he feeds his cows has dried up, adding: "We have to hope and pray that the heavens open."