Some benefit claimants have been given permission to ignore hosepipe bans during drought restrictions across the south of England.

Since July 11, water companies in 13 counties have introduced hosepipe bans, a further six have advised limited use. These bans were due to June being the hottest on record for England, with 37.7C recorded in Norfolk.

But while millions of water company customers have faced fines since Friday to stave off water shortages, thousands on the WaterSure tariff remain free to use water.

In Hampshire, where three 34C heatwaves have scorched lawns this summer, the rules are not being applied equally to all households. Local residents have noted the stark contrast between neighbours.

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Fareham working mother of two, Sarah Thompson, told the Telegraph: “We’ve paid our full water bills every month, cut back on everything, and now we can’t even fill a watering can without worrying about a £1,000 fine.”

A neighbour on Universal Credit with three children and a household member with a medical condition faced no restriction, running a sprinkler and filling a paddling pool, she pointed out.

The operational contrast has ignited fury over what critics call “two-tier Britain.”

The WaterSure scheme, expanded by Labour this year, caps bills for low-income households with large families or significant medical water needs. Applicants must claim welfare benefits such as Universal Credit or housing benefit.

Those misusing it for non-essential ponds or pools are technically ineligible, but enforcement appears lax.