Anglian Water bosses have been left red-faced after hundreds of customers were mistakenly told they must boil their water.  

People living in Little Metlon, Hethersett and East Carleton received postcards from Anglian Water this week warning them not to drink the tap water.

Customers were told to boil their waterCustomers were told to boil their water (Image: Contributed)

But Anglian Water has now said the postcards were sent in error and have confirmed the water is safe.

The postcards form part of the company's planning process in which they prepare for situations where they might need customers to take action.

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The notice customers received informing them of the errorThe notice customers received informing them of the error (Image: Contributed) They said the postcards were sent during routine tests and were sent in error by a third-party supplier. 

A spokeswoman for Anglia Water said: "We have carried out extensive water quality tests and we can confirm that there is no need for customers to boil their water.  

"We’ll be in direct contact with everyone affected to clarify and reassure them."

One customer, who asked not to be named, said: "It was something of a shock but we've had a bit of a laugh at Anglian Water's expense now."