The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said Hereford-based Bulmers was facing charges in relation to its management of risk from legionella.

Two years ago 28 people contracted the disease and two died in the city.

The bacteria was identified in a cooling tower at the firm's factory in Plough Lane and an inquiry began.

The case is to be heard at Hereford Magistrates' Court on 23 January.

The HSE said it had sent notice of the intended action to Bulmers and Nalco, a water treatment company which had a contract with the cider producer, in December last year.