Woody Allen became the latest victim of the hosepipe ban when he was stopped from using tap water to create rain while shooting scenes for his latest film.

The legendary writer, director and actor, who was filming on Brighton beach with Hollywood star Ewan McGregor earlier this week, instead used sea water which was pumped into hoses for the special effect.

Jon Crooke, from Southern Water, stepped in when he heard about the film maker's plans to spray water from jets on the Palace Pier.

He said: "The South is currently experiencing its worst drought since the Thirties so it is important that everyone does their bit to save water.

"In this case there was an obvious alternative to using tap water and once we explained the situation to the production team they were more than happy to co-operate."

Allen and McGregor shot scenes for the new film, known only as Woody Allen's Summer Project (Wasp), on and beneath the pier as crowds looked on.

McGregor stars in the top secret production, expected to be released next year, with Colin Farrell. The pair play hard-up siblings who end up bitter rivals after they turn to a life of crime.