Severn Trent has apologised to residents of a small Leicestershire village after traces of E. coli were found in the water supply.
Around 30 homes in the New Causeway, Barkestone le Vale, have been without running water since Friday (5 July) after the water become contaminated following some routine maintenance.
A spokesperson for Severn Trent said the work “caused some dirt to get into the water pipe” and one of its samples “indicated that the water was did not meet the high standards we expect”.
“As a precaution, while we disinfect the affected section of pipe with chlorine, we’re asking customers at 30 properties in the street not to drink their water. Only the properties on this section of pipe are affected,” the spokesperson added.
The spokesperson confirmed that a trace amount of E.Coli had been detected.
“We’ve been taking samples of the water over the weekend, and once we’re absolutely sure that the water is back to normal, we will lift the restrictions,” the spokesperson added.
“In the meantime, we’ve been providing bottled water for everyone affected and keeping them informed of what’s happening. We’re incredibly sorry this has happened – we know that this is a huge inconvenience for everyone affected, but water quality is of paramount importance and we need to make sure the water is back to its normal great standard.”