Dangerous, fake vodka is being removed from the shelves of corner shops in Colchester after trading standards officers warned it could make consumers sick.

The counterfeit spirit, labelled as Kalinska Imperial Vodka, was tested by Essex county Council and found to contain significant levels of methanol.

The authority has condemned the alcohol and warned customers to be wary of the drink as it is hazardous to their health.

Kalinska Imperial Vodka is a legitimate brand, but the products concerned have been confirmed as counterfeit. Licensing authorities across Essex are aware of the issue.

Alarms were raised when bottles of the fake vodka were being sold wholesale from stores in Essex.

Essex Trading Standards say the legitimate version of this product has a detailed cap with a silver design which customers can spot.

Meanwhile, there are other significant differences about the liquid and the bottle which make it identifiable to Trading Standards officers.

Council staff are currently working with the local business community and the National Food Crime Unit to identify the wider supply chain and to protect consumers from any harm.

If businesses have any concerns about products that they have been offered for sale either by telephone or in person at their premises, they are asked to report it here

Similarly, if consumers have any concerns then they can report the matter directly to the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 040506.