MORE men than women have become victims of the Legionnaire' disease epidemic in Hereford.

Of the 24 cases, including one death, reported by yesterday (Wednesday)18 are male.

Experts say this is not peculiar to Hereford, it is a recognised characteristic of the killer disease.

The latest confirmed case was a man in his 50s but health chiefs believe there is now a glimmer of hope that the outbreak has peaked.

County director of health, Dr Mike Deakin said he was reasonably confident the bacteria was not now in the atmosphere in the city.

Although more cases could develop before the end of the incubation period he hoped next week would show a happier picture.

Dr Deakin advised people to be alert and seek advice if they developed flu-like symptom but said Hereford was quite safe and everyone should act normally.

Business people in Hereford are cautiously optimistic shoppers are returning following a noticeable dip in numbers.

Not all victims of the disease have needed hospital treatment, with five at home, treated by GPs.

Eight have been discharged from hospital but others are seriously ill.

Bulmers in Hereford remain the only named location where Legionella had been found but whether it caused the epidemic still has to be proven.

A visit by the Group Tour Organisers Association went ahead at the weekend to see what Herefordshire had to offer.

It was at the peak of the crisis but only one couple cancelled. The rest voted their visit to Herefordshire a great success.