Concerned about the ongoing water shortage, I visited one of our DIY superstores in search of a "diverter kit" to channel rainwater into my water butt.

I found one eventually but was appalled at the huge display of hosepipes, sprinklers, taps, hosepipe gadgets, pressure washers, drenchers and so forth - I thought we had a hosepipe ban.

I call upon DIY retailers to adopt a more responsible attitude, and to join with Brighton and Hove City Council in our campaign to save water.

The shops should take down their hosepipe displays and replace them with devices for conserving water instead of sqandering it.

They could also offer advice for the public on how to reduce their water consumption.

-Delia Forester, Labour member for Queen's Park deputy chair, Planning Applications Sub-committe