A small water feature funded by a sheltered housing residents’ bingo winnings is the second in the city which could be filled in amid fears about legionnaires’ disease.

The fountain in Elwyn Jones Court in South Woodlands, London Road, Brighton has been identified as a possible risk.

Earlier this month elderly residents of Laburnum Grove sheltered complex in the Hollingdean area of Brighton were told by Brighton and Hove City Council it might also have to be filled in.

Joyce Hutson, 77, is leading the charge to protect the feature in Elwyn Jones Court, which was put in by the council about a year ago.

She said: “Everything is getting out of hand with this council. Enough is enough.

“It’s only a little one with water trickling over the side.”

Mrs Hutson saved up her bingo winnings to pay for the feature, which was a dream of her friend and fellow resident Gwen Keeley who sadly died before it was installed.

Mrs Hutson said residents will sit around the fountain if the council tries to disconnect it.

She said: “It’s really upsetting people. It’s so ludicrous it’s not true.”

Bob Spacie, who is leading the fight for the Laburnum Grove fountain, said he supports the residents of Elwyn Jones Court in their fight to keep the feature.

Green MP Caroline Lucas said: “There needs to be some balance.

“Features like fountains can really improve people's quality of life. I certainly hope there’s a way to save the fountains for their enjoyment.”

The council said no decisions have been taken and that a report will be produced once risk assessments have been carried out.

It has also said the action only concerns water features in housing schemes and not public fountains.

Green Councillor Alexandra Phillips, deputy chairwoman of housing, said: “These legionella concerns are legitimate, and legally the council must make sure residents are safe.

“Officers are looking into the options available if residents would like to keep their water features,”