Sir, Like, I'm sure, many Oxford residents, I have been puzzled by the Thames Water hosepipe ban as I watch the rain come down and observe the River Thames at a very high level.

Yes, I know, it's the wrong kind of rain and they don't know how to catch it, despite taking ridiculous sums of money from us all.

But relief is at hand: apparently, it remains legal to have water-fights with hosepipes. So all that citizens wishing to refresh their lawns have to do is to dress in bathing suits and run around their gardens hosing one another whilst squealing and shouting Stoppit!'. It will disturb the neighbours much more than a quiet, reflective hosing, but maybe Thames Water are really out to promote fun.

Nigel Clarke,Oxford