South Devon water bug could last a week

Compensation of £15 offered

Residents in South Devon have been told an outbreak of a diarrhoea-type illness could last for "at least" a week.

The parasite cryptosporidum has been found in drinking water supplies, which can lead to infections.

Public Health officials say at 22 cases have been confirmed and up to a hundred people have reported symptoms to their GP in the past week.

South West Water originally offered residents £15 in compensation, but has upped it to £115 and is urging locals to boil their water before drinking it or go to a bottled water collection point at either Broadsands Car Park in Paignton or Fresh Water Quarry Public Car Park in Brixham.

One primary school in the area closed on Thursday as it said it couldn't provide enough drinking water for pupils. The headteacher of another primary school has urged parents to still send pupils to school but with enough drinking water as it had to turn off water fountains to stop infections from spreading.

Laura Flowerdew, chief customer and digital officer for South West Water, said: 

“We sincerely apologise for the impact this is having on our customers in the Brixham and Alston areas.

“Protecting the health of our customers and providing them with a clean, fresh drinking water supply is our number one priority and we will continue to work around the clock to make sure that happens as soon as possible.”

South West Water orignally denied suggestions the outbreak had anything to do with their network.