The Sheerness Times Guardian has shamed a water company into admitting it had allowed an appalling waste of water.

The Kent Messenger Group paper's investigation into continuing leaks from a reservoir on the Isle of Sheppey made a front page 'splash' and centre spread on January 19.

And owners Southern Water have now responded with an apology and a frank admission about how embarrassing the company's appalling performance had been and a promise of speedy action.

Editor Duncan Marsh said: "We had run a number of stories about the leaks over several months.

"Each time the company response was that it would be fixed within a few days. They seemed to come up with a different excuse every time.

"Not only were residents angry about flooding in their gardens and damage to local roads, but they were fed up with seeing the wastage while the water company was still imposing restrictions, including a hosepipe ban, and issuing advice about saving water - even down to not running your tap while cleaning your teeth."

He added: "In a way it quite refreshing for the spokesperson to be so honest. And it gave us a great follow-up the following week."

The paper's water watch continues to ensure the company keeps its promise.