Gardeners and car owners are being warned — a hosepipe ban starts today for the Isle of Wight and parts of Hampshire.
The temporary restrictions apply to Southern Water customers.
However, exemptions are in place for those on the Priority Service Register, including individuals with medical or mobility needs and Blue Badge holders.
For keen gardeners who have spent a lot of money on plants this year, a hosepipe ban is likely unwelcome, but you can still use a watering can or bucket. Plus, if the seagulls have dive-bombed your car, you can still wash it at a commercial car wash.
On the Southern Water website, it details what could happen to you if you break the ban: "We’re asking our customers to help us by following the hosepipe ban and hope that they will. We aim to communicate first, providing information about why it’s important not to use a hosepipe during restrictions, but enforcement may follow for repeated or serious breaches. Water companies can ask customers to follow a hosepipe ban under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010. The Act gives us powers to fine customers up to £1,000 if they ignore it. We hope it doesn’t come to that, and everyone will play their part to protect our rivers."
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