A HOSEPIPE ban comes into force today across the Anglian Water region as drought conditions continue.
The ban – the first in the area for more than 20 years – means activities such as watering plants, washing cars and filling paddling pools with hosepipes are prohibited.
The order has been made by Anglian Water following the driest 18 months for more than a century.
Businesses and other commercial operations will not be affected. However, the firm is urging everyone to do their bit and use water sparingly.
Managing director Peter Simpson, said: “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.”
Although South Holland District Council is exempt from the ban, the authority says it will be making its own water cutbacks.
A spokesman said: “Under our own initiative we will be cutting our usage of water by cleaning our lorries less frequently and reducing the frequency with which we water the bowling green at Ayscoughfee Hall.
“The public would wish us to ensure our planted areas and hanging baskets are watered on a regular basis as this maintains the colour and attractiveness of the district, particularly as this is an Olympic and Diamond Jubiliee year.”