There’s no hosepipe ban on the horizon, says Manx Utilities, but the supplier is still asking the public to use water wisely after a 20% increase in daily demand over the hot and dry weekend.

Water stocks are higher compared to the same time last year.

’Fortunately, a very wet May has made a difference this year versus last year when we implemented a ban,’ a spokesperson for Manx Utilities said.

’As we stand today we are not considering a temporary use ban (hosepipe ban) in the near future. The water stock situation is reasonably healthy.’

The long range forecast to September is for near normal rainfall and warmer temperatures than normal, with a 30 to 35% chance of hotter spells.

The island’s largest reservoir, Sulby, stands at 89% full and water is being pumped from Sulby to West Baldwin, which MU says is normal procedure during drier periods.

The spokesperson said: ’Whilst we don’t have serious concerns and are not planning to introduce a hosepipe ban we would like people to consider how wisely water is used in their daily lives.

’Avoiding the prolonged use of hosepipes or watering your garden in the evening so plants get the full benefit without water evaporating and recycling used water are examples on how the community can help.’