Hosepipe ban set to be lifted

Hosepipe bans are set to be lifted by three of the UK's biggest water companies - Anglian, Southern and Thames Water.

The restrictions were introduced in April across the southern and eastern regions of England.

However, after what has possibly been the wettest drought on record with exceptional rainfall during April and May in the region, the companies have decided to lift the restriction. In Uckfield this will come into effect on Thursday.

Southern Water said that some sources were still below average for this time of year but most were "no longer in drought status".

The company's four reservoirs are all more than 80 per cent full, some 35 per cent higher than they were at the start of March, and there has been some recharge of underground water supplies. Some sources are still below average for this time of year but the majority are no longer in drought status.

Water Quality and Strategy Manager Meyrick Gough, said: "While our focus remains firmly on dealing with aftermath of the torrential rain and flooding in the south over the last few days it is also right for us to lift the water restrictions.

"Our supplies have been topped up by the wet weather and are now in a much stronger position going into the summer than they were when we introduced the restrictions in early April. However, with the underground sources, which supply the vast majority of our customers, still below average for this time of year, we are asking our customers to continue with their efforts to use water wisely and not waste water.

"We have seen a great response from customers and demand has dropped considerably as a result of the wet weather and customers doing their bit and we are very grateful for their continued support."