Tap water drinking ban after bacteria scare

THOUSANDS of people in a South Yorkshire town were warned not to use tap water for drinking or cooking after high levels of bacteria were detected.

Ed Miliband, the former Labour leader, said he was “very concerned” over the situation affecting 3,600 homes in parts of Thorne, near Doncaster, and the neighbouring village of Moorends, which is in his constituency.

Yorkshire Water said on Friday: “Customers in 3,600 properties in the village of Thorne, near Doncaster, have been told not to use their tap water for drinking or cooking.

“High levels of bacteria have been detected in the local water supply, prompting us to issue the precautionary Do Not Drink advice which customers must follow until further notice.”

The firm said it was distributing bottled water at two specific places.

Last night, it updated its advice for Thorne only, saying residents could use tap water but should boil it first. The company had said that “following consultation with local health experts” householders should not drink tap water, cook or prepare food with it, clean their teeth with it or let their pets drink it.

Mr Miliband said on Twitter: “Very concerned for residents who can’t drink water because of contamination in parts of Moorends.

“In touch with @YorkshireWater about their provision of water while problem is fixed. Also speaking to council.”