Hosepipe ban to remain in force despite recent rainfall

Lakes and reservoirs in West Cumbria have recovered following the deluge of rain over the past two weeks, water bosses have confirmed.

But United Utilities has warned a hosepipe ban will stay in force until the county gets "sustained" rainfall.

The company said the area's key reservoirs of Ennerdale and Crummock were now full.

However, others across the Lake District and Pennines remain low after the driest seven months on record.

The temporary hosepipe ban covers parts of Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and some parts of Cheshire.

A spokesman for United Utilities said: "Ennerdale and Crummock - the key reservoirs supplying West Cumbria - are now full.

'Sustained rainfall'

"Thirlmere and Haweswater reservoirs, in the Lake District have seen an 8% increase in water levels rising from 50% a week ago, to 58% by Sunday night.

"But, we are warning further sustained rainfall is required before all reservoirs fully recover.

"We're monitoring reservoir levels on a daily basis and we will lift the hosepipe ban as soon as all reservoirs recover to normal.

"There is more rain forecasted for the region, and whilst not great for summer, is welcomed to bring the driest start to the year back into balance."

The north west of England has only seen two-thirds the normal average rainfall since April, according to the company.

People have been warned that anyone found to be flouting the ban will be issued with a £1,000 fine.