Bug scare shuts leisure centre

The bacteria was found during regular checks

The bacteria which causes Legionnaires' disease has been found in Coleraine Leisure Centre's water system.

The facility will remain closed until disinfection is completed and further testing is carried out.

The legionella bug which causes the disease was found in the showering system during routine water safety checks, Coleraine Borough Council said.

Legionnaires' disease is a rare form of pneumonia, most often contracted by inhaling mist from water sources.

No cases of Legionella have been reported so far this year in the Northern Health and Social Services Board area.

The board said in a statement its public health department was aware of the incident.