A hosepipe ban is to be introduced in most parts of Cumbria from August 5.

A United Utilities spokesman said: "Lack of rain and high demand for water means that our reservoirs are now lower than we’d like them to be at this time of year.

"That’s why we’ve taken the decision to introduce a hosepipe ban across most of the North West on August 5.

"This means you won’t be allowed to use either a hosepipe or sprinkler as they use an incredible amount of water. We know hosepipe bans can be inconvenient but by taking these steps now we can make sure we have enough water for more essential things like drinking, washing and cooking."

A small number of postcode areas in Cumbria - in Carlisle and parts of Eden - are not currently affected by the ban.

The main restrictions include:

* Watering a garden and/or plants using a hosepipe

* Cleaning a private car, van, motorbike, trailer, caravan or leisure boat using a hosepipe

* Filling or maintaining a domestic swimming pool, paddling pool or ornamental fountain

* Cleaning walls or windows using a hosepipe

* Using a water from a hosepipe for domestic recreational use

* Cleaning paths or patios using a hosepipe

* Cleaning other artificial outdoor surfaces using a hosepipe.

Poeple can still use water outdoors if they:

* Use tap water to fill a bucket or watering can

* Use grey water, which is water that’s been used before ie bath water

* Have their own water supply, such as a private borehole.

The spokesman sadded: "Until the ban is introduced, if you’re able to avoid using garden sprinklers and hosepipes to water your lawns at this time it really will make a big difference. Please use a watering can instead or, even better, reuse any water from the home such as water from washing up bowls or bath water.

"Whatever you can do to reduce your water usage will help to make sure there is enough water for everyone."