I would like to praise Southern Water for their brilliant customer focus and sense of fair play.

The award for customer service was given after my water butt order had to be cancelled when I was advised it would take eight weeks for it to be delivered.

The award for fair play was given when I was told using a gun on the end of my garden hose is the same as using a sprinkler.

A gun stops water flow just like a tap and ensures you can water pots efficiently. I agree sprinklers are a waste but a gun is just like a tap extension. They are quite different.

But the users of both are treated like criminals. A hose gun means disabled or busy gardeners can water responsibly.

I do grow plants which need very little water in pots but a hose gun is a water-efficient way of keeping pot plants alive.

Please, Southern Water, put your green brain in gear and think about all the responsible gardeners being treated like common law breakers.

It's a horticultural disgrace.

-Dave Curtis, Brighton