THE company which supplies water to much of south Bucks is to lift its hosepipe ban tomorrow.

Heavy rainfall since the introduction of Thames Water’s ban has led to reservoir levels increasing to such an extent that hosepipes across the county will be allowed to be switched back on again from midnight.

The ban was initially imposed on April 5 – and was swiftly followed by two and a half times the monthly average falling.

It helped Thames Water save more than 100 million litres of water a day across London and the Thames Valley, and the company has urged residents to continue to use water wisely.

Richard Aylard, sustainability director for Thames Water, said: "We would like to say a heartfelt 'thank you' to all our customers for complying with the restrictions, and for their ongoing efforts to use water wisely. They really are much appreciated.

"In early April things looked very different than they do now. We had had the two driest years on record and we had no idea how long it was going to stay dry.

"While we prepared for worst, bringing in restrictions to save water to ensure there would be enough if the dry spell continued, the topsy-turvy British weather had other ideas.

"Since we imposed the Temporary Use Ban just over two months ago, we have received an extraordinary amount of rain.

"We are really pleased we can now lift the ban but, with groundwater levels still low and the possibility of a third successive dry winter, we still need to be careful. We don't need a ban, but we do need to ask everyone to keep on using water wisely.

"So if you've bought a water butt this year, please keep using it. If you've started taking shorter showers, please keep it up. And again, thanks for your help and understanding."

Southern Water and Anglian Water will also lift their bans, but Veolia Water, who also provides supplies to Bucks, are keeping theirs in place for now.