Swimmers hit by Delhi belly but Rebecca Adlington fights back to win gold

Urgent tests of the water at the Commonwealth Games swimming pool were demanded today after dozens of athletes fell ill.

The competitors — including many representing England — suffered vomiting, diarrhoea, other gastric problems and breathing difficulties.
Beleaguered Games officials warned that events may have to be cancelled if the water is found to be contaminated.

Rebecca Adlington overcame her illness to win her first Commonwealth gold medal in the 800m freestyle event, in which she also holds the Olympic title. She said: "I'm so pleased with that swim. It hasn't been the easiest of preparations, but I felt better going into the race."

Fran Halsall managed to get a bronze in the 100m freestyle despite being sick at the side of the pool. Today she posted the fastest qualifying time in the 50m freestyle semi-finals. "I feel a lot better today after a bit of illness and that was a strong swim," she said.

One competitor was taken to hospital while others were treated by team doctors inside the athletes' village.

Team England criticised the lavatories at the SP Mukharjee swimming complex which had been blocked and resulted in sewage being pushed out.

There were suspicions that an excessive amount of chlorine in the water may also have been to blame.

The Evening Standard understands an investigation has identified pigeon droppings, feathers and insects being to blame for the spate of illnesses.

Teenage diver Tom Daley, who arrived in the Indian capital late last night and headed for the athletes' village, said he was taking precautions to avoid illness.

Silver medallist Michael Rock revealed on Twitter that he "felt like throwing up on the pool deck" after his race. A statement this morning from Commonwealth Games England said 43 of the 541 athletes had been affected by "mild stomach conditions" over the last month.

"These levels are lower than we expected coming into this environment," it said. "But we are not complacent and continue to reinforce the need to be vigilant in areas like hand hygiene.

"Our athletes are supported by medical professionals who continue to monitor this on a daily basis. Separately, we have asked for reassurances as to the water quality at the aquatics venue."

England's chef de mission Craig Hunter said a complaint was made about the pool lavatories.

"But I just had a telephone call to say that problem was being rectified and they were now functioning. We have also asked for the water to be tested and be ready for them to compete in this afternoon."