A catalogue of "appalling" failures led to two people contracting deadly legionnaire's disease at Basildon Hospital, a court heard.

The hospital faces an unlimited fine after admitting health and safety breaches in minimising the risk of exposure to legionella bacteria.

Barry Myers, chairman of the bench at Basildon Magistrates' Court, said: "The case that appears here is absolutely appalling."

Published Friday January 30, 2004

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