![SWW network.](/sites/www.anthonymangnall.co.uk/files/styles/gallery_large/public/news-gallery/brixham_network-ezgif.com-webp-to-jpg-converter.jpg?itok=iB1hCahY)
While the Alston supply area has had the boil notice lifted, those in the Hillhead area are still being advised to boil their tap water.
All tests on the Alston reservoir have been clear, indicating that the 32,000 residents in the Alston supply area were never subject to any water issues and the boil notice was applied on a precautionary basis. These tests have been independently verified, and the attached diagram illustrates where the fault in the network was.
South West Water is also publishing daily test results on their website: https://www.southwestwater.co.uk/brixham
Please note, the Drinking Water Inspectorate is undertaking a thorough investigation of the situation, including the cause and South West Water's response.
Guidance
There is still some confusion about how tap water can be used by those who are still affected by the boil notice. The below information has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency.
Why is it safe to use water for washing hands and body, but not for drinking or washing vegetables?
You catch Cryptosporidium by swallowing the parasites (tiny organisms). The main risk locally at this time is from swallowing or drinking unboiled water. Fruit or vegetables that have been washed in unboiled water might also be a risk.
You can also catch Cryptosporidium from other people, animals, poo – for example on their fur, in babies nappies or in soil, and then putting your hands near or in your mouth. This can be prevented by washing your hands properly.
You might ask if the water is safe for hand washing. Cryptosporidium is present in the water in tiny amounts. If you wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and dry them on your own towel or use paper towels, it is very unlikely that any oocysts would remain on hands and then be transferred into the mouth and swallowed.
Hand washing remains important to prevent spread from person to person.
Compensation
South West Water has increased the standard compensation for customers in the area that is still affected to £265 in total. This payment will be made automatically to household customers, and will either be received into customer bank accounts early next week where we have direct debit details, or applied as a credit to their account today, and will show on their next bill, where we do not. For businesses, the payment will be made via their retailer.
Please note, Anthony is pushing for payments to be available by cheque for those who do not pay by direct debit.
Any customers who would like to discuss their situation, including compensation claims, can do so by telephoning the helplines below or by attending a drop-in session. These are being held at the Scala Hall in Brixham, while a mobile van is also visiting Brixham. Please do check the South West Water website to check when these sessions are taking place: https://www.southwestwater.co.uk/brixham
Household customers: 0344 346 1010
Businesses: 03332 343 293, open 9am to 7pm Monday to Friday, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 2pm
Anthony is happy to support both residents and businesses wherever necessary, so please do email anthony.mangnall.mp@parliament.uk or call 01803 868378 if you require additional support.