Council warned over unsafe water '18 months ago'

Tests have found bacteria in the water system of a Cheltenham housing estate,

A housing estate resident has said he contacted the local council "at least 18 months ago" about the "horrendous" condition of residents' tap water.

Residents on Barlow Road in Hester's Way, Cheltenham, were told not to drink water from their taps earlier this month after tests found bacteria in the pipes.

People living on the estate are now being provided with bottled water for drinking, showering and teeth cleaning.

But one resident, who asked not to be named said: "At at least 18 months ago, I raised my concerns. There was stuff hanging out of the taps. It was really horrendous."

"Other people had smelly water and they had stuff hanging out of their taps and out of their shower heads, it coats anywhere that water comes out of," he added.

"The council have seemed to get it together now, so I do want to give them credit."

In a statement, Cheltenham Borough Council said: "We are conducting water testing across all homes. So far approximately 19% of the homes have been tested, and the results have shown that the water is clear and safe to drink.

"As part of our ongoing communication efforts, tenants will receive an updated letter outlining our findings.

"We are continuing to talk to tenants and encourage them to let us know if they have any concerns."

Residents have been told to use bottled water for drinking and showering

Other people that live on the estate say they're very pleased with how the council have handled the situation.

Virginia Dando, 89, said: "It hasn't caused me any problems at all - the council have been very good."

Other residents told the BBC that they had been give as much water as they needed.

Severn Trent said it is assisting with the ongoing investigation.