LICENSEES in Winchester city centre have reacted angrily to council chiefs' decision to axe hanging basket displays because of a possible hosepipe ban.

At a PubWatch meeting last week, they said the council had left them feeling high and dry.

They claimed attractive displays brought trade to the city, encouraging visitors to take refreshment in the cafs and bars, and stated their belief that the floral displays were good for business and the Winchester economy as a whole.

A spokesman said: "This is a ludicrous decision by the council and it cannot be good for Winchester. There is no hosepipe ban in Hampshire and cutting out hanging baskets is unlikely to have any lasting effect on the city's water usage.

"If the council does not provide baskets this year, local businesses may well be forced to make their own arrangements, using an equivalent amount of water just the same.

They have found support from City Centre Partnership, which has urged traders to help create their own Winchester in Bloom displays.

Said manager, Graham Love: "I know Choice Plants, in Romsey, who have supplied the hanging baskets for Winchester in Bloom in recent years, has enough stock to supply all of the businesses.

"I would like traders to get in touch with them. It would be great if they could get their own, providing they use sensible watering regimes. It could make for a spectacular sight in the city and something that will be of benefit for traders and visitors in Winchester."

Mr Love added: "Businesses are understandably concerned about the appearance of the city during the busy summer months. Attractive floral displays increase footfall and dwell time in our city, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere for locals and visitors alike."

Southern Water has denied claims that restrictions are pending, but they haven't been able to rule a ban out if the dry weather continues.

A spokesman for the city council said they were taking an "environmentally responsible stance" and reiterated there won't be any hanging baskets.

He said: "The money is there. We have allowed £35,000 over two years, and the troughs and beds will still be planted up, but using more drought-resistant plants. They are just a nice, but don't use as much water."