Scottish water issue E.coli warning for Shapinsay

Scottish Water has today issued an E.coli warning for Shapinsay, after a routine sample taken from the island’s reservoir identified the presence of the bacteria.

People on the island are being advised not to drink or cook with their tap water. Bottled water is to be provided to the affected customers and will also be available from the island’s shop. Deliveries will be made to vulnerable customers.

After discussions with NHS Orkney, the company has put in place a Don’t Drink, Don’t Cook notice for the 166 properties on the island affected.

A spokesman for Scottish Water has said investigations show that the potable water coming from the treatment works and to the other parts of the network is safe to drink and that this and they are taking a precautionary approach to the customers being supplied from it.

Scottish Water is continuing to investigate the cause of this failure and Shapinsay Service Reservoir is being inspected, with further sampling and analysis taking place.

A letter will be issued to inform those affected when when the notice has been lifted.