EXPERTS have warned East Lancashire could be facing its first hosepipe ban in 14 years.

Reservoirs are drying up after a lack of rain since the start of the year.

And unless there is ‘substantial’ rainfall – which is unlikely – we could see a ban in place within the next two weeks.

The last serious drought to hit the nation was in 1995 when a blanket hosepipe ban was implemented.

It was to last for 14 months and even prevented people from using watering cans in their gardens.

The last thing our country needs right now is a repeat of those long and arid days.

We must not take our water for granted anymore as it is one of the most precious commodities we possess.

Simple ways to save water include turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, only using a washing machine with a full load, taking showers instead of baths or installing a water meter.

But it is also up to water companies to ensure reservoirs and pipes are properly maintained to prevent any leaks.

Let us hope that the water companies’ message hits home and makes people stop and think the next time they leave a tap running.