Cookham flooding: Sewage spills into homes and gardens

Residents in a flooded village have said sewage is spilling into their homes and gardens.

Those living on Lightlands Lane in Cookham, Berkshire, have stopped flushing toilets or showering "because there is a fear it's coming back".

Thames Water said the problem was due to flood defences near the sewage pumping station being "overwhelmed" following recent heavy rainfall.

Tankers are removing sewage while the pumping station is out of action.

One resident said: "There are a lot of residents that are getting water and sewage coming into their house from the bathroom.

"We're struggling... we're not wanting to use any water or flush any toilets because there is a fear it's coming back."

She described hearing "a lot of bubbling happening", adding: "We're just not able to function at the moment."

Thames Water said: "We are very sorry to residents of Lightlands Lane in Cookham who have been impacted by sewer flooding.

"Our customer teams are also working closely with those impacted and will be carrying out clean-ups where required."

The water firm added repairs at the flooded pumping station would be carried out "where it is safe to do so".

"In the meantime, we are using tankers to remove excess sewage reducing the risk of further flooding and to ensure customers can continue to use facilities at home," it added.

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