The introduction of restrictions, for the first time in five years, was quickly followed by downpours for the rest of April, which was the wettest on record. This wet weather continued throughout most of May and into June and has helped boost water sources and keep down demand for water.

Southern Water’s four reservoirs are all more than 80% full, some 35 per cent higher than they were at the start of March, and underground water sources are sufficiently recharged to lift the ban despite some still being below average for this time of year.

Southern Water has also reduced leakage across the region and are continuing their programme to replace 256km of water mains to help reduce the risk or bursts.

The company’s compulsory metering programme aims to result in 93% of customers being metered by 2015. This will allow them to control water usage by pricing structure for the goods rather than a ban on the means of transportation [i.e. hosepipes!].