THE cider-making giant HP Bulmer in Hereford has been named as the possible source of the outbreak of Legionnaire's disease in the city which has so far claimed the lives of two people and left 10 others ill.

Initial tests of a cooling tower at the Plough Lane cider makers has come back "presumptive positive," - suggesting the presence of the disease's Legionella bacteria.

This is yet to be confirmed by further tests and does not necessarily link Bulmers to the current outbreak, say officials.

Bulmers, which produces a variety of well-known ciders including Woodpecker and Strongbow, said it is co-operating fully with the authorities involved in dealing with the outbreak.

"But as a precautionary measure the fruit processing plant has been closed down," said George Thomas, company spokesman.

"The evaporation plant will be fully cleaned and disinfected before it is restarted. The intake of apples will be put on hold until this is done."

He stressed no employees were among the victims of the disease and added that the large chimneys emitting steam over Hereford city were not involved and posed no danger.

"We must make it very clear that there is no risk to the public whatsoever from drinking our products, and production of cider will continue," he added.

The cooling towers were tested on Tuesday, November 4, and proved negative. It was a sample taken by health inspectors last Friday that had proved "presumptive positive", said Mr Thomas.

Bulmers has advised staff there is no reason for them to stay away and concerned employees should visit their GP or staff nurse on site.

Two of the 12 Legionnaire's cases to date were confirmed last night, and all 10 current surviving victims are stable in hospital.

The outbreak, which has lasted five weeks, has been responsible for the deaths of two pensioners, both in their 70s.

Dr Mike Deakin, Herefordshire's director of public health, said premises across the city centre and further afield were still being visited in a bid to eliminate other potential sources.

"The possible identification of a potential source does not change our approach," he added.

"Investigations will continue and our advice to people in Herefordshire does not change.

"We would remind everyone that Legionnaire's disease cannot be passed from person to person and it is safe to visit Hereford."

Herefordshire GPs have been advised to continue to be alert to the possibility of new cases.

A 24-hour hotline has been set up on 01785 231 011 for worried members of the public.