As soaring temperatures continue to affect the UK, many areas are under hosepipe bans. Amidst these restrictions, some celebrities' properties have drawn attention. Sam Faiers, a former star of "The Only Way Is Essex" (TOWIE), appears to be adhering to the water restrictions at her Surrey home, where her lawn shows signs of scorching due to the dry conditions. Her water supplier, Affinity Water, implemented a ban on July 17, prohibiting the watering of gardens, lawns, and plants, as well as car washing and patio cleaning.
In contrast, the grounds of Mark Wright, Faiers' former flame, and his wife Michelle Keegan's Essex mansion have been observed to be vibrant and green. This is despite their water supplier, Essex and Suffolk Water, announcing a temporary ban in early August due to prolonged dry weather and dwindling water reserves. Wright and Keegan purchased their mansion in 2019 and have since renovated it.
Faiers moved from Essex to Surrey in 2020 with her partner Paul Knightley and their three children. Their £2 million home reportedly features a lawn that is visibly browning, suggesting compliance with the ban. The garden area includes football goalposts for Knightley and their son.
Drought Conditions in England
The dry spell has led to drought declarations across England. England experienced its warmest June on record, with temperatures reaching up to 38C (100F). July was the driest on record, with minimal rainfall. Consequently, on August 10, the Environment Agency declared drought conditions in over two-thirds of England, encompassing the Central and East regions.
Other public figures have also been noted in relation to the water restrictions. Sir Paul McCartney's 160-acre East Sussex estate displays signs of dry, yellowing grass, aligning with the ban. McCartney purchased the property, known as Blossom Hill Farm, in 1973. He reportedly completed his 2020 album "McCartney III" in a recording studio on the estate during COVID-19 restrictions.
This contrasts with the appearance of Sir Rod Stewart's Grade II-listed Essex mansion, which has maintained healthy green grounds despite the heatwaves. Pictures emerged this week of Stewart's property, which he bought in 2013 for £4.65 million. The contrast in garden conditions among public figures highlights varied approaches to water conservation during the ongoing dry weather.