LEDBURY residents are still complaining about the smell and taste of water from the tap, one month after a perceived problem was flagged up on social media.

Some local people says the water smells of bleach, and its taste has been called "absolutely vile".

This week, discussion on Facebook about the water quality led to a lively discussion, drawing in 45 comments, with local resident Cevan Price, posting that the water "tastes metallic yet again".

He added: "I could smell it while running it."

Another resident said her water had been "chemically tasting for about three weeks now", and she was having to buy bottled water for her toddler.

Other residents also spoke of having to boil or filter the water, or else they were also buying in bottled water.

But other residents, especially on the Deer Park estate, have perceived no problems at all, raising the possibility that any problems might be down to localised pipes.

The water on the New Mills estate has tasted metallic and earthy on occasions, in recent weeks.

But Welsh Water has carried out tests, after being approached by concerned local residents who, it seems, were concerned in particular about a strong taste of chlorine in the supply.

The water company says there is nothing to worry about.

A Welsh Water spokesman said: "We are aware there has been some discussion on social media regarding the taste of the water in the Ledbury area, however we have only received four enquires regarding taste and odour from this area in the last month.

"The enquiries relate to chlorine which is widely used as a disinfectant in the water industry to provide customers with a safe drinking water supply. We have tested the water and can reassure local residents that the chlorine levels are normal. Providing safe clean drinking water is our highest priority and our water is continuously monitored at our water treatment works and throughout the distribution system."