E. COLI is breeding in the water tanks of London’s famous Woolwich ferry, unions claimed yesterday.

Workers on the river crossing will stage the first of 12 day-long strikes tomorrow in protest at health and safety concerns as well as “bullying and harassment.”

Unions GMB and Unite said Briggs Marine, which operates the ferry for Transport for London, is failing to maintain essential equipment such as storm valves, fire hydrants and fire pumps.

They say staff have reported finding the toxic bacteria in water tanks.

GMB official Clive Smith said members weren’t striking for self-interest but “because they have real concerns for the health and safety of the public as well as themselves.

“Rather than dealing with these legitimate health and safety issues, managers have engaged in a campaign of harassment against members, including threatening to sack union reps for raising legitimate safety concerns.

“There are also concerns about management discrimination against disabled staff members and sexual harassment.”