A SHOP worker has complained about Colchester Council’s use of jet sprays to clean pavements during the hosepipe ban.

Richard Lyon, a night manager at Spar in the High Street, said contractors were still using high-powered hoses attached to the mains supply almost every day.

Mr Lyon, who photographed the workers cleaning the street, has appealed for the council to take greater care to preserve water.

He said: “I am very angry it is using so much water.

“There were gallons used washing down the street by my shop.

“Meanwhile, the rest of us are working hard to save it.”

Anglian Water has imposed its first hosepipe ban in 20 years after two unusually dry years saw water reserves drop to record lows.

The company said it would meet the council after seeing Mr Lyon’s pictures.

Ciaran Nelson, head of media for Anglian Water, said: “It’s vital anyone in the public eye using water thinks carefully about the message it sends to the general public, many of whom are prohibited from using hoses in their own homes and gardens.

“We’re experiencing a really severe environmental drought following the driest 18-month period in more than 100 years.

“Our priority is to protect public drinking water supplies.

“It’s an opportunity for councils to show leadership and set an example.”

Colchester Council is exempt from the hosepipe ban.

Martin Hunt, councillor responsible for street services, defended the council’s cleaning policy.

He said: “Colchester Council needs to clean the streets on the grounds of public health.

“The detritus cleaned up on the High Street includes blood, vomit, urine, dog mess and grease from discarded takeaways, which we simply cannot leave.

“The council is not affected by the hosepipe ban in relation to the cleaning of roads, footpaths and walkways and will continue to fulfil its duty to maintain cleanliness of the streets for residents and visitors alike.”