South East Water (SEW) is asking customers across the region to ‘pause’ their hosepipe usage this July as water supplies come under strain.

A ‘red status’ has been issued to customers in Berkshire, Hampshire, Sussex and Surrey which means that water use is suggested for ‘essential purposes only’.

The utility firm, which supplies drinking water to the majority of Maidenhead, said no official hosepipe ban is in place at the moment,

But it is asking customers to use water for ‘drinking, cooking and hygiene’ purposes only.

The region is in the midst of another heatwave and half the expected rainfall has fallen since March, sparking the concern for water levels.

At the beginning of this month, South East Water treated and put 655 million litres of water into the system, which is 67 million litres more than any average July.

In an email to customers, the company’s supply director Douglas Whitfield said: “While there are no formal restrictions in place, to protect your local water supplies and make sure there is enough for everyone's daily needs, it’s really important that we all work together.

“Every drop saved helps to prevent temporary hosepipe restrictions.”

Suggested ways in which to save water yet still keep cool in the heatwave are using water pistols instead of sprinklers for children’s outdoor splash play.

Those who own paddling pools or hot tubs should also avoid refilling them while the water supply continues to be under strain.

Jet washing should also be avoided for now.

The company said it is working ‘around the clock’ to fix bursts and leaks as well as moving water around its network to where its needed most.

Mr Whitfield added: “We want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has been using water wisely. We truly appreciate your ongoing efforts.

“We are so sorry for the disruption this causes, and we are incredibly grateful for your help in safeguarding Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey’s water supply.”