Bans starts on Friday

Southern Water have introduced the ban to 110,000 homes in West Sussex because levels at the Weir Wood Reservoir, near East Grinstead, are running low.

Operations director Steve Salter said: "It has been the second driest winter since 1904 and, unfortunately, the lack of rainfall has meant that we have less water available for use throughout the summer.

"Although regrettable, these precautionary measures are being brought in to ensure that we can continue to supply all our customers with water for drinking and normal household use."

County councillor Derek Deedman commented: "I consider that with more houses being built in West Sussex, and with continuing drier winters possible from climate change, people should be using the hosepipe ban as an opportunity to take action to permanently reduce their demands on the water supply.

"For example, Southern Water is working with a supplier to make subsidised water butts available for purchase. "The Southern Water website has more information available on this and other suggestions to reduce water use in the garden and the home. People can also contact the company on 0845 1306565."