PEOPLE in Wiltshire will escape the hosepipe ban now in place across large parts of southern England.

Wessex Water, the company that supplies north and west Wiltshire, does not plan to introduce a ban during 2006. Spokesman, Hywel Lloyd said: "We do not anticipate having to impose any restrictions on water use this year, but we always ask customers to use water wisely throughout the home and garden."

Homes across the south east have been affected by the ban, where three water companies have applied for a drought order to prevent all non-essential water use. This has been caused by two successive dry winters, which has meant underground water levels are well below average.

Although there are no plans to prevent hosepipe use in north and west Wiltshire, Wessex Water want people to take precautions to make sure water is not wasted.

The company is currently running a campaign to persuade customers to install a water butt to collect rainwater for the summer.

"Water butts can potentially save hundreds of litres of water by collecting rain, which can then be used to refresh gardens or wash cars during the summer," said Mr Lloyd. "This is an ideal time to get a water butt, as you can take advantage of any spring showers and start collecting water straight away.

"By installing a water butt you can recycle water which would otherwise have been washed down the drain." Garden sprinklers are responsible for taking up an enormous amount of water each year.

In one hour, a sprinkler can use as much as a family of four does in a day. On hot evenings during the summer months, more than 50 per cent of the water supplied by Wessex Water is used for gardening, so a large amount could be saved if people were to collect rainwater.

Over the past 30 years, the demand for water has increased by 70 per cent, and the average person now uses 150 litres every day.

WATER ADVICE

  • Take a shower rather than a bath. By doing this you will save 45 litres every time.
  • Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth. Leaving it running wastes ten litres.
  • Don't use dishwashers and washing machines half full by doing this you waste up to 20 litres. Wait until they are full before you switch on.
  • Don't overfill your kettle. Only boil enough water for your needs.
  • When washing or peeling vegetables use a bowl rather than letting the tap run.