UNITED Utilities has issued a warning to residents about water usage during the hot weather.

A spokesperson for United Utilities said: “The hot weather means we are seeing a massive increase in water consumption across our area.

“We urgently need your help to avoid a hosepipe ban.

“You can help us by turning off your garden sprinklers, not using your hosepipe and taking shorter showers and not baths this weekend.

“The demand is so high, particularly during peak times that we are struggling to get enough water around the system quick enough.

“If we all do our bit this will reduce the risk of low water pressure or no water at all.”