Q&A: Hosepipe bans

Image caption, Under the bans, ornamental fountains cannot be filled or maintained

A hosepipe ban has come into force in parts of England that continue to be in a state of drought because of extremely low rainfall. What does this mean, what can be done to save water and will it affect the Olympics and the Paralympics?

<paragraph>Which areas are affected?</paragraph>

<paragraph>Are any other companies about to introduce a ban?</paragraph>

<paragraph>What does a hosepipe ban actually mean - what can't I, and what can I, do?</paragraph>

Image caption, Last month was the fifth driest March in UK since records began in 1910

<paragraph>What action could be taken against me if I flout the ban?</paragraph>

<paragraph>How will this affect the Olympics and Paralympics, sports fields and businesses like car washes?</paragraph>

<paragraph>How long is the ban going to last?</paragraph>

<paragraph>How much difference will it make and what could the water companies do next if it doesn't work?</paragraph>

<paragraph>Could we see a return to the standpipes of the 1976 crisis?</paragraph>

<paragraph>What can I do to help?</paragraph>