Hosepipe ban is in place

There is now a hosepipe ban in places for all local Thames Water customers.

The utility company say we had the the driest July on record, and below average rainfall in 10 of the last 12 months As a result, water levels in our rivers and reservoirs are much lower than usual. Their engineers are working around the clock to fix leaks. Due to the hot weather, demand for water is very high.

Thames Water say you should not use a hose for:

• Watering your garden or plants – although you can still use it to water food being grown in an allotment, where essential
• Filling or maintaining your paddling pool, swimming pool or hot tub (see note below)
• Cleaning your vehicles
• Cleaning windows, walls, paths, patios and other artificial outdoor surfaces like artificial grass
• Recreational use like water fights and water slides

There are further details, including exceptions for Blue Badge holders, on the Thames Water website.