Hosepipe ban starts at Easter

The ban, which begins just before the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, will restrict domestic use of hosepipes, so people cannot use them for things like gardening, washing cars and windows, or filling paddling pools.

Businesses and other comercial operations are not affected.

Peter Simpson, managing director of Anglian Water said: “This is the first time Anglian Water has imposed a hosepipe ban in more than 20 years, but we believe this is the most sensible and responsible action to take to help safeguard customer supplies for this year, next year and beyond.

“In addition to the hosepipe ban, we are asking our 4.2 million customers to help us save water at home, at work and in the garden.

“We are doing our bit too; millions of pounds are being spent to secure water supplies in the region. We are not telling people to stop doing what they have to, but to adapt their behaviour to reflect the severity of the situation. The message is – do what you can.”

The Environment Agency’s Drought Prospects report, published on Monday, warned that there could be a severe drought if dry weather continues.

Lord Chris Smith, chairman of the Environment Agency said: “A prolonged drought will have long term impacts on wildlife and habitats.

The Environment Agency is actively monitoring the environmental impact of the drought and will take action to mitigate these impacts wherever possible.”