A potentially fatal bacteria has been found in showers at Rainham Recreation Ground.

The discovery was made following a routine inspection on Friday, March 20.

Council workers were quick to react and, only 12 minutes later, teams had been told of the situation and the centre was closed.

All events and sports fixtures have had to be rescheduled.

Contractors were called in the following Tuesday to flush out the showers.

Richard Hicks, the council’s assistant director for leisure services, said: “Following a routine inspection at Rainham Recreation Ground and Pavillion, Wakeley road, Rainham, we were notified by our contractors that they had obtained a positive reading for legionella in the showers at the centre.

“As soon as we were notified the recreation ground was immediately closed and all sports teams that use the ground were notified that it would be out of use until further notice.

“The shower system has been chemically flushed and further tests have been taken. We are now awaiting the results of these tests.”

It is unclear whether any of those using the centre have suffered symptoms related to legionnaires’, which are similar to that of flu.

A spokesman for Medway Council said: “It is unclear when the grounds will be re-opened until we get the all clear from the test results.”

Spokesmen for the Rochester and District Football League were unavailable for comment.

The potentially fatal form of pneumonia can affect anybody, but principally affects those who are susceptible because of age or illness.