TESTS involving putting quantities of a harmless green fluorescent dye into sewers in two estuary-side South Hams village have been postponed due to adverse weather conditions.

South West Water had planned to carry out the operation on Wednesday, March 1, but postponed on Monday in the face of bad weather forecasts.

The work, in second home and boating hotspots Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo, is designed to help identify defects and plan improvements to the villages’ sewerage systems. But the utilities firm admits the water in local creeks may turn temporarily green as a result.

The operation will now be carried out on Wednesday, March 29, subject to weather conditions, and will need to fit in with tide times. Cameras mounted on drones will be used to help survey the estuary and sewerage network.

South West Water’s Steve Rosser said: ’Although we frequently use dye to survey the sewerage network in this way, it is the first time we’ve used drones to help our teams on the ground. This is because many of the pipes in Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo are in the foreshore and difficult to access.

’During and after the testing you may see dye coming from manholes or in the stream and estuary. This will help us pinpoint any sections of pipe that need further investigation or repair.

’The dye will disperse naturally and is not harmful to the environment.’

The Environment Agency, Natural England and the Marine Management Organisation have been briefed and are supportive of the testing. The Harbour Master, parish council and local businesses have also been informed.

Any members of the public who have any concerns should [email protected] .