Although the hosepipe ban only affects some parts of Comet country, all residents can do their bit to conserve this valuable resource. Here are some handy tips from the Environment Agency website. # Wash vegetables and fruit in a bowl rather than under

Although the hosepipe ban only affects some parts of Comet country, all residents can do their bit to conserve this valuable resource.

Here are some handy tips from the Environment Agency website.

# Wash vegetables and fruit in a bowl rather than under a running tap and then use the leftover water to water house plants.

# Use the minimum amount of water required when boiling water in saucepans and kettles - this will save energy as well as water.

# Try keeping a bottle or jug of water in the fridge instead of running taps until the water runs cold.

# Half-load programmes on dishwashers and washing machines use more than half the water and energy of a full load. Wait until you have a full load before switching the machine on.

# Try not to leave the tap running while you brush your teeth, shave or wash your hands, as this can waste up to 5 litres of water per minute.

# A five minute shower uses about a third of the water of a bath. But remember that power showers can use more water than a bath in less than five minutes.

# Old toilet cisterns can use as much as 9 litres of clean water every flush. Reduce this by placing a 'save-a-flush' or 'hippo' in the cistern.

# Dripping taps can waste up to four litres of water a day. Replace worn tap washers for a quick and cheap way of saving water.