UNITED Utilities are still working to flush out the mains after reports over the weekend from residents of discoloured water coming from their taps.

Residents in the M28 and M29 postcode areas, which include parts of Leigh, Astley and Tyldesley, reported having discoloured water.

This was due to a disturbance in the mains. United Utilities have reassured residents the water is "unlikely to be harmful".

On Sunday morning, United Utilities said in a statement: "We’ve received a number of calls from customers in the Greater Manchester area letting us know that their tap water is discoloured.

"This has happened because of a disturbance to the water mains in your area. Our pipes have naturally occurring sediments and minerals which can get disturbed from the bottom of the pipes every now and then, normally when we have carried out a repair or have replaced a section of water main.

"We know it doesn’t look nice but don’t worry, it’s unlikely to be harmful and will settle down again with time. You can help by letting your cold water tap run at a slight trickle until your water runs clear again.

"In the meantime we’ll be keeping an eye on this to make sure your tap water returns to normal again as quickly as possible. Please take a look at our discoloured water page for more information."

Works have continued through Sunday and into this morning.

Shortly after 8.30am today, United Utilities said: "We’re sorry if you’re still having problems with your water supply, our team are still busy flushing the mains in your area to help clear the discolouration.

"The flushing is working and we hope that this will continue to keep improving the situation.

"Thank you for your continued patience."