GARDENERS and car lovers rejoice, the 18-month long hosepipe and sprinkler ban is over at last.

Cars can be washed and gardens lovingly watered thanks to the lifting of the record restriction by North West Water this week.

And, after Tuesday's announcement, bosses at the region's water company have thanked people for their efforts in saving water during the driest period on record.

Derek Green, the company's managing director, said: "Thanks to our customers' efforts in reducing their use of water and the tremendous hard work of our employees, we have maintained essential supplies throughout the drought.

"Reservoir stocks are recovering and we are now able to lift the ban. Without this combined effort, the ban may well have had to remain in force throughout the winter."

Since April 1995, the North West has had 17 months of below average rainfall and reservoirs in Burnley and Hyndburn reached their lowest levels - an incredible two per cent - in November 1995.

Measures to beat the drought have cost North West Water £85 million.

North West Water's new mobile centre will be in King William Street, Blackburn on Friday, November 1 between 10am and 4pm. Visitors will be able to find out more about North West Water's work and discuss ideas and concerns about services.

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