Furious residents are calling for action including a public inquiry following a change in the water supply which they claim has left them with a raft of health problems.

Since United Utilities began blending soft water from Ennerdale with harder water from Egremont boreholes a few weeks ago, people say they've had upset stomachs, itchy skin and mouth and eye ulcers and have been forced to buy bottled water.

Since The Whitehaven News reported on the complaints earlier this week, the story has reached thousands of people on social media, with many sharing their own experiences.

And a petition is being organised to force the water company to take concerns seriously and there has even been a call for a public inquiry into the situation.

However, the water company insists that the water is safe, and will next week meet with concerned residents at drop-in sessions.

Catherine Dodgson’s four-month-old daughter Olivia had sickness and diarrhoea when she made her milk formula using the water, so has now switched to bottled.

"She hasn’t had sickness and diarrhoea since I started using bottled water,” said the Cleator Moor mum. "I have went back and tried the tap water a few times and the same thing happens.

"I'm buying bottled water which is wrong when I’m paying rates."

There are claims the water is also leaving stains on cups, which can only be removed with bleach, and is making people still feel "dirty" after showering and bathing.

Chris de Cordova, who lives at Thornton Road, in Whitehaven, said at first, she thought recent problems she’s had with dry smeary eyes and an exceptionally dry mouth was due to her getting older.

"I now think it could well be my body reacting to going from very pure water to what we have now," she said.

She added that since she switched to bottled water, she has noticed an improvement.

People have been taking to The Whitehaven News' Facebook page to vent their anger at the water change, with one, John Martindale, suggesting a public inquiry.

Andrea Maley wrote: "All my family are being affected by the change in water quality. We need a review of the affects on our health, not excuses saying the water is safe, not everyone reacts the same we should not have to just get use to it.

"We need a petition to force the water company to take our concerns seriously."

Copeland mayor Mike Starkie is now urging people to attend next week's drop-in sessions.

"I have had many residents contact me about their concerns over water quality, kettles making strange noises, and the changes that have taken place without p warning or consultation," he said.

United Utilities water and scientific services director Martin Padley said: "I can reassure residents the detailed analysis we carry out regularly on the water supply shows there is nothing amiss.

"Although the supply contains more minerals now that we are blending water, it still meets all the very strict UK water quality standards.

"If anyone has concerns or they would like to ask any questions I hope they will come along and discuss it at one of our drop-in sessions."

The sessions, between 1pm and 8pm, take place at Egremont Methodist Church next Wednesday; and on Thursday at The Beacon in Whitehaven.