ACCESS to Cheddar Reservoir will be closed for three days due to the forecast extreme heat.

Bristol Water has taken the decision as a safety precaution.

The path leading to the reservoir will be closed from 10am on Sunday (July 17) until the end of the day on Tuesday (July 19), when an amber weather warning is in place.

A Bristol Water spokesperson said: "This action is in line with our routine weather safety practice at Cheddar Reservoir for extreme heat scenarios.

"With the extreme heat and very little shade around the reservoir's permissive path, we want everyone to stay safe.

"We know the water can look very tempting on hot days, but it can be extremely dangerous and we don't want any extra pressure on emergency services on what will already be a very busy few days for them".

The spokesperson added: "We apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment this causes.

"Hopefully with advance notice, we can avoid any wasted journeys and provide time for our regular local visitors to make alternative plans.

"We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the community for the much improved levels of compliance with site rules that we have seen this year.

"This has helped us to keep the path open in alll but the most extreme heat circumstances."