Tests Show Contamination in UK Floodwater
By Raza Mumtaz 'Pakistan Times' Executive Editor/UK Bureau Chief

LONDON (UK): Analysis of floodwater in a home in Tewkesbury has found 1,000 times more E.Coli in water inside the house than outside.

The water inside the house is stagnant making it the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

Preliminary results show salmonella, shigella and rotavirus are also likely to be present.

Meanwhile, more heavy rain is forecast for this weekend. It could fall for up to nine hours in badly affected areas, causing flash flooding and rising river levels.

Weather forecasters said it was unclear which areas would be hit hardest "There is some uncertainty as to the rain's northerly extent but vulnerable areas are at risk," they said.

Meanwhile, rats are also reported to have been spotted around flooded homes, adding to the trauma of returning householders who already fear serious infection from polluted waters.

"There is a growing concern amongst everybody of infection and contamination".

Oliver Madge, chief executive of the British Pest Control Association said that a number of calls had been made about from residents with rats in their homes.

"Rats aren't aggressive, but can be when cornered. They will leave of their own accord. Make lots of noise and keep the doors shut." he said.

The Prince Of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall have spent the day been visiting flood victims in Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.

On a visit to Tewkesbury, Prince Charles said: "I've seen some obviously disastrous horrors that have affected so many people. "What I have found so wonderful is the spirit the people have displayed". He also praised volunteers and the Army for their help.

The Environment Agency is maintaining three severe flood warnings, all along the River Thames.

Meanwhile, the Government has announced a £10m aid package for schools and children's services in areas hit by the flooding last month.●