Frustrated residents have voiced their concerns to representatives from a water company over changes in their supply.

A drop-in session organised by United Utilities took place at St Mary's Church in Harrington today, after complaints about the change to the water supply, which now mixes soft water from Ennerdale with hard water in Egremont boreholes.

This was the third drop-in session to be held by the water company, with well-attended sessions held in Egremont on Wednesday and Whitehaven yesterday.

Many residents were unhappy that they had not been consulted before the changes took place.

Maurice Leigh, 60, from High Harrington, attended the Workington session after experiencing issues with the change in water supply.

He said: "I'm very dissatisfied that nothing was said before it happened. Like most people, I first noticed the kettle popping.

"The water doesn't taste the same and I've had a dry mouth and throat. My partner says her hair doesn't feel the same after she's washed it.

"I'm very surprised that freshwater mussels are being put before people."

Alan Armstrong, 83, had family coming to stay with him in his High Harrington home. During their stay, they had upset stomachs and Mr Armstrong believes this was due to the water change.

He said: "I've been using bottled water since then and I've had no problems. We know the water's not right - instinct tells us.

"I know I'm not the only one who went out and bought a new kettle when it all started. Our cups of tea turn black as soon as we pour the water in."

Mr Armstrong even brought tea bags to the drop in to be tested by the United Utilities representatives.

He continued: "It's ridiculous that we have the most rainfall in the country, yet we get our water from bore holes."

Gaynor Murphy, the company's regional stakeholder manager, now hopes to keep people informed of the situation.

She said: "We've spoken to over 400 people in the last two days. It's been good to talk to people and re-assure them that the water is safe.

"I think it's helped and people seem to have left the sessions satisfied that their questions have been answered."

Charmian Abbott, chief scientist at United Utilities, added: "It's been a good opportunity to explain the changes and re-assure people that the water has been tested to comply with water standards."

Another drop-in session will be held at Gosforth Public Hall on Tuesday between 1pm and 8pm.

United Utilities are directing customers who may still have concerns to the information provided on their website at www.unitedutilities.com/cumbria