Water, water everywhere – just not in our flipping hosepipe

It came as no great surprise to anyone around here to learn that we are officially in a drought; most of our reservoirs are drier than the best man's mouth the morning after the stag do.

- Kate Wobschall

In fairness, it doesn't take much to plunge us into that state these days. There can't be many who seriously expected to be watering their petunias using a hosepipe this summer.

We are also well aware of the situation because we had a text message to tell us. And not only that, we were offered some sage advice on how to reduce water consumption.

Usually if the water company texts, it's to let you know your supply is off - as though somehow you may not have noticed despite the lack of action when you switch the tap on.

Occasionally it's to let you know that the water for which you pay handsomely every year is going off so best go grab a kettle and a few pots and pans to make sure you have enough to be going on with.