WATER firms in Dorset say they have no plans to introduce a hosepipe ban.

On Monday, United Utilities said its seven million customers in the North West would face a 'temporary use ban' starting on August 5, after what may be the longest heatwave since 1976.

However both Bournemouth Water and Wessex Water have ruled out a ban.

Bournemouth Water, which also covers large areas of western Hampshire, said it was "well placed" for higher demand this summer but was "closely monitoring" water levels.

A spokesman said: "We do not currently envisage imposing a temporary use (hosepipe) ban in the Bournemouth Water area.

"Our water is supplied by two rivers, the Avon and Stour, and some groundwater sources (15 per cent).

"Bournemouth is at the bottom of both river catchments and the amount of water we need to take from the rivers to supply the area is relatively small compared to the size of the rivers."

Rob Scarrott, the firm's head of environment, said: "We’re still working hard behind the scenes to meet the increased demand for water during the heat.

"While demand is still higher than normal for this time of year, we have seen a slight reduction in consumption over the last week and we would like to thank customers who have been using water wisely.

"With the hot weather set to stay for a while, everyone can continue to help us and save money by being water wise, particularly in the garden, which typically accounts for much of the additional demand we see during hot weather."

Wessex Water supplies water to most of Poole and the western part of Dorset, as well as Somerset and Wiltshire.

The firm said demand for water in its area has risen by 20 per cent this summer, however a spokesman said: "While there are currently no concerns about reservoir or river levels in the region – and no prospect of a hosepipe ban or similar restrictions – we're keeping a close eye on resources after less than 10 per cent of average June rainfall fell last month."

Aimee Shaw, Wessex Water's head of water resources, said: "There has not been a hosepipe ban in the Wessex Water supply region since the famous scorching summer of 1976, and wet weather in March and April this year means reservoirs are currently around 80 per cent full.

"We've also invested £228 million in a water supply grid, running from Dorset to Wiltshire, which enables water to be moved around the region to where it's needed most.

"The grid, which was commissioned earlier this year, helped keep customers in supply during the cold snap in March and is now doing the same during this rare long spell of warm weather."

Both firms are nevertheless advising customers to avoid wasting water where possible.