A FURTHER three patients in Hereford diagnosed with the potentially fatal Legionnaire's disease have been discharged from hospital, health officials have revealed.

Twenty-six people have been diagnosed with the disease in Hereford since the outbreak struck late last month, one of which, a pensioner in his 70s, has died.

No new cases of the disease have been diagnosed since Monday, but health experts warn more are possible.

The Hereford cider giant HP Bulmer was named as the source of the outbreak after one of its cooling towers was found to be contaminated with the Legionella bacterium.

The incubation period from the time the bug was found at the Plough Lane plant - which produces Strongbow - is likely to continue for the next few days, which means there could be more cases yet to be diagnosed.

Six patients remain in Hereford County Hospital, and are described as being in a "stable" condition.

Thirteen patients have been discharged from hospital and have returned home, while a further six are also at home, being treated by their GP.

A 24-hour hotline has been set up for members of the public who fear they may have the disease. It can be reached on 01785 231011.