THESE photos show the swarms of midges that are driving Bournemouth residents to distraction.

The insects breed each year at the water treatment plant by Francis Avenue in West Howe and migrate to the surrounding homes.

The Daily Echo has reported how Sembcorp Bournemouth Water has been issued with an abatement notice over the midges after postmen refused to deliver there.

The firm has 21 days to sort out the problem – otherwise Bournemouth council may start enforcement action in the courts.

The resident, 50, who took the photos, told the Echo: “The problem has got progressively worse over the years.

“You can’t hang washing out to dry, have windows open, or work out in the garden without midges going in your face, nose and mouth.

“They are a profit-making business who may need to invest to solve this otherwise they may have to compensate the residents.”

The plant uses sand filters and the midges breed in the standing water.

Other plants use chemicals to clean the water.

The company’s managing director, Roger Harrington, pictured, said in a statement: “We are responding to the abatement notice and working closely with the local authority.

“In addition, we are writing to our neighbours to outline the steps we have taken and will continue to take to minimise the number of midges.”