SUFFOLK: Homeowners are today being urged to be more savvy with their water supply ahead of the first hosepipe ban to hit the country in 20 years.

The ban, which has come about after the driest 18 months in more than 100 years, is due to be implemented on April 5 and it is set to affect domestic use of hosepipes.

Practices that will be affected by the ban include washing cars, gardening and filling paddling pools.

Anglian Water’s managing director, Peter Simpson, said: “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 order to help residents alleviate the impact of the ban, Anglian Water are encouraging their customers to visit their website where there are a host of tips to save water.

Among the tips to help deal with the ban are turning off your tap when brushing your teeth, which could save 15 litres of water, having a shower instead of a bath and washing cars with a sponge instead of a hosepipe.

Mr Simpson added: “This is one of those times when everyone needs to pull together and help save water, as well as look out for relations, neighbours and friends who might struggle in some way – perhaps lifting a heavy watering can or bucket for example.

“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.”

For more information about the hosepipe ban and tips on how you can save water, visit www.anglianwater.co.uk

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