A reservoir next to one of Wiltshire’s most picturesque golf courses has been drained by Thames Water as part of work to maintain drinking water supplies.

But this is one water feature that would have even elite golfers well and truly bunkered – it’s made from reinforced concrete and buried deep underground.

Built in 1978, Common Hill Service Reservoir, between Swindon and Cirencester, holds more than 1.5 million litres of treated water before it is pumped to the taps of 2,600 properties in Cricklade.

Draining and inspecting underground reservoirs is required by law so engineers can carry out any necessary work to maintain water quality standards.

Thames Water staff have been classed as key workers during the coronavirus outbreak, meaning those who cannot fulfil their roles at home will continue to fix leaks, carry out major civil engineering and resilience schemes, and maintain services at reservoirs, water treatment works and sewage sites.

Non-essential work, such as meter readings, has been reduced.

Situated near Cricklade House Hotel and Golf Club, Common Hill Reservoir comprises two ‘cells’, so one part can be taken out of service while the other remains in operation to ensure supplies are maintained.

Jon Green, Thames Water’s reservoir safety manager, said: “We take our responsibility in providing customers with the high-quality water they rightfully deserve very seriously.

"The work at Common Hill protects the quality of drinking water and ensures the structure remains in a good condition.

“Ensuring drinking water can be stored safely in our service reservoirs is essential for our customers and these inspections and repairs are critical to maintain a safe water supply.”