Beachgoers ordered not to use water to rinse sandy feet amid supply crisis

Beachgoers have been ordered to not use water to rinse their feet amid a supply crisis.

Bournemouth Water has told those taking advantage of the heatwave to let sand dry on their feet before brushing it off.

The water firm said it was one of the "few simple choices" that could "go a long way".

Bournemouth Water has said the pressure on its reservoirs "continues to grow" as "climate change makes our weather less predictable".

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Their plea to avoid water usage follows Tuesday's hottest May day on record, which saw temperatures reach 35.1C.

Bournemouth Water said: "When you're spending time at the beach, a few simple choices can go a long way - like letting the sand dry on your feet and beach toys before brushing it off, rather than rinsing it away with water."

The company has been criticised over burst water pipes and increasing customers' bills despite rising profits.

And earlier this week, it warned customers they could experience low water pressure or a loss of supply after a burst main.

But it is far from the only water company asking customers to reduce their demand during the heatwave.

South West Water has asked people to fill paddling pools halfway full.

And Anglian Water asked customers to reuse their paddling pool water by covering pools up with a sheet to keep dirt out.

South East Water, meanwhile, has suggested Britons avoid paddling pools altogether, and to instead use water blaster to keep children cool.

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Northumbrian Water told the public to wash their cars over grass, to reduce shower time, and to not rinse plates before placing them in the dishwasher.

Thousands of homes in Kent have lost access to water due to "extremely high demand".

But South East Water has told residents who do have running water to limit its use to essential purposes such as drinking, washing, and cooking only.

Bottled water stations have been set up, but supplies remain intermittent due to increased demand.

Reservoir levels have also been affected by one of the driest Aprils on record.

Rainfall stood at 38 per cent of its average level, according to the Met Office.

The heatwave has seen 11 people drown in open water.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow warning for eastern and southeast England and London, which will last until 8pm on Saturday.

The UKHSA has also said water-related incidents could increase - and warned of the risks of cold-water shock and drowning.

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