Wessex Water is introducing a hosepipe ban for all its customers.

The ban, which comes into effect just after midnight tonight, is the first in the region since the summer of 1976.

‘We’ve worked hard to avoid the need for restrictions, but introducing a hosepipe ban now is necessary as no significant rainfall has been forecast for the coming weeks,’ said a spokesperson for Wessex Water.

‘Following months of unprecedented hot and dry weather, demand for water has never been higher and we need to protect our water resources, both for you and the environment. Demand is, currently 30% higher than average, and with more hot weather to come.’

The ban comes into effect on Tuesday 18 August from 00:01 hours. It means that, from then on, a hosepipe can no longer be used for the following:

• Watering gardens, lawns, flowers and plants.

• Filling or maintaining paddling pools and swimming pools.

• Washing private vehicles.

• Cleaning patios, paths, driveways, walls and windows.

• Filling ornamental ponds or fountains.

• Cleaning outdoor surfaces.

The water company says it is currently unable to say when the ban might be lifted.

For a full list of restrictions visit the Wessex Water website.