South East Water is ending its hosepipe ban, despite warning of the possibility of another hot summer.

David Shore, the company’s director of assets, said: “With the recent rainfall now starting to refill our key underground sources, we are more confident of being able to meet demand for water if we have a normal spring and summer, and without the need to keep the hosepipe ban in place.”

However, he added: “Although our resources are in a much better position than at this time last year, with the possibility of another hot summer this year we are asking customers for their continued support.”

Last year’s hot weather saw three water companies in the south east apply for Drought Orders to restrict non-essential use. Sutton and East Surrey used theirs to close car washes that didn’t use a water recycling system. Mid Kent Water chose not to use its Drought Order, while Thames Water subsequently withdrew its application.