A hosepipe and sprinkler ban affecting more than 1.4 million people has come into force. South East Water said demand for drinking water had reached "record levels" since May due to extended spells of warm and dry weather. The temporary ban will affect households in Kent, East Sussex and West Sussex, the firm said.

As a result, you should not water your garden with a hosepipe and you could risk fines of up to £1,000 if you ignore a ban. However, you can still use a watering can, a bucket, or pots and pans to water your plants.

Millions more people are now under a hosepipe ban as Southern Water is the latest firm to introduce one. Southern Water has introduced the ban across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, which will come into force at 9am on Monday.