Warnings over 'lethal' fake vodka

The fake vodka was first found on sale in Northumberland and London

Bottles of potentially lethal fake vodka have hit the shelves of shops within the UK and may be circulating among stores in Cambridgeshire.

The county council said trading standards officers have warned traders to check shelves after the discovery of counterfeit Spar-brand Imperial Vodka.

The fake 70cl product, bearing the code QI:1445c, has been laced with excessive levels of methanol, the council warned.

The drink has been found in the last week in Northumberland and London.

David Broughton, of the council, said: "We want to warn residents and traders to check for counterfeit vodka.

"It is very worrying that these fake spirits contain such high levels of methanol.

"Officers are also concerned that residents may unwittingly buy these counterfeit bottles from unscrupulous dealers selling cheap alcohol without a licence."