Cameron Poole

Anglian Water’s hosepipe ban in parts of Essex prohibits using mains-connected hoses, sprinklers and pressure washers for activities including garden watering, car washing and pool filling. Gardening educator Lee Connelly recommends collecting rainwater and other reusable water, watering selectively during cooler parts of the day, and using mulch to retain soil moisture. Children are encouraged to turn water saving into a sustainability-focused gardening game.

Colchester Council passed a motion by 24 votes to seven, with two abstentions, calling on Essex County Council to reverse restrictions on promoting Pride-related library events and reaffirming support for Colchester Pride and inclusive LGBTQ+ spaces. Supporters said the restrictions singled out and undermined the LGBTQ+ community. Opponent Martin Parsons argued that some LGBT activist groups intimidate people with conflicting religious or secular beliefs and claimed Pride flags could make practicing Catholics and evangelical Christians feel unwelcome. Other councillors rejected those arguments, saying the motion concerned protection from discrimination rather than religious privilege. The dispute followed an Essex County Council order during Pride month not to promote certain themed events on Essex Libraries’ social media.