The ban will come into force on July 10 across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, following the warmest spring on record, and a record-breaking heatwave, amid forecasts that suggest even more hot, dry weather is on the way.

The River Test, one of the world’s rarest chalk streams, supplies most of the water to homes and businesses in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and is now running 25 per cent below typical levels.

Tania Flasck, director of water operations at Southern Water, said: “We’re working round the clock to keep taps flowing and protect the River Test, which is at a critically low level following recent hot weather.

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“After a record year of leakage reduction last year, we’ve cut leaks even further, by almost a quarter in Hampshire and Isle of Wight.

“Since January, we’ve found and fixed 2,840 leaks in the region, saving approximately 27 million litres of water per day.”

Southern Water has praised customer efforts in responding to last year’s restrictions.

Ms Flasck said: “I want to thank people for the incredible efforts they made last year to save water during the hosepipe ban.

“Their actions really made a difference.

“By working together, we can ensure we keep the taps flowing, protect the environment, and reduce pressure on the River Test.”

Residents are asked to avoid using hosepipes for watering gardens, filling paddling pools, or washing cars.

A hosepipe uses 1,000 litres of water an hour, equivalent to one person’s weekly water use in just 60 minutes.

Southern Water is using smart technology, drones, and specially trained dogs to detect leaks in rural areas.

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The company is investing in long-term solutions, including a new reservoir, water transfer pipelines, and water recycling schemes.

Household customers are encouraged to stop using hosepipes immediately.

Exemptions apply for customers on the Priority Services Register or WaterSure scheme who have health or mobility needs, such as Blue Badge holders.

More information, including full details of the restrictions, exemptions, and water-saving tips, is available on Southern Water’s website.