Water shortages hit homes in the south east leaving households with just a trickle dribbling from taps as Britain looked set to sizzle in the hottest June day for 176 years.

The countrywide heatwave entered its fifth day today, making it the longest run of scorching weather since 1995.

Affinity Water, which supplies 3.6 million homes in London and the Home Counties said that many houses had lost water pressure due to unprecedented demand in the hot weather. At one point households were consuming 50 per cent more water than at peak times, a spokesman said, and customers were urged to cut back on unnecessary use.

“Due to the exceptionally hot weather we are experiencing, demand on our network has significantly increased,” a spokesman for Affinity said.

“We are asking customers to assist us by using water wisely, to reduce the demand on our network. This will help to ensure there is enough water for essentials such as drinking, washing and cooking.”