If your water is turning brown in these areas of Greater Manchester, this is the reason why

Residents in some areas of Greater Manchester have reported their water turning brown and grey this afternoon (Sunday).

The M28 and M29 postcodes are among those affected by water discolouration, including homes in Astley, Tyldesley, Atherton, Boothstown and Worsley.

Some residents have reported that their water is turning brown (Tim Hare)

United Utilities have confirmed that the brown water is a result of a 'disturbance to the water mains' which has disrupted sediments and minerals from the bottom of pipes.

This is likely a result of repairs or the replacement of a section of water mains, the water board says.

United Utilities added that the water 'is unlikely to be harmful' and that residents should run the water until it goes clear again.

However, some residents have said that running their water has still not helped the problem.

A statement on the United Utilities website said: "We’ve received a number of calls from customers in M28/M29 area of Manchester letting us know that their tap water is discoloured.

"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."