SICKNESS and diarrhoea struck down Sunderland City Council workers after they all tucked into the same buffet. As the chief executive and other employees enjoyed refreshments during a two-day event – during national Food Safety Week – little did they know that something sinister was lurking on the vol-au-vents and sausage rolls. Up to 50 staff are believed to have been affected by the outbreak, which resulted in the Health Protection Agency (HPA) being called in. The HPA, which tackles health threats from infectious diseases and environmental hazards, said it was investigating the cause of the illness. Food Safety Week, promoted by the Food Standards Agency, is when people are reminded to practice good kitchen hygiene.