Hosepipe ban in force from Friday

An Island-wide hosepipe ban will come into force this Friday.

Manx Utilities say it's down to dry conditions and an increase in water usage over recent weeks - despite a campaign encouraging residents to 'use water wisely'.

The local authority says spring has been 'unusually dry' with rainfall in March and April below average.

Further, rainfall in June was nearly 50% less than usual - standing at just  28.9mm - compared to the average 62.9mm.

Officials have warned anyone found to be breaking the rules on Island could face a hefty fine of up to £2,000.

Manx Utilities says jet-washing, watering a garden or washing a car are 'not essential for life' - so to cherish ever singly drop. 

It's the first local hosepipe ban since June 2020, before being lifted the following month.