Stores warned about ‘life-threatening’ fake booze

Retailers have been warned to steer clear of “dangerous” fake alcohol, which can cause blindness and even death, as well as costing stores their licences.

The warning, from the Local Government Association, concerned dodgy booze that has been found to include chloroform and ethanol, a key ingredient in anti-freeze.

Councillor Simon Blackburn, chair of the LGA’s Safe and Stronger Communities Board, said: “Some shopkeepers clearly have questions to answer about how these items arrive on their shelves.

“They need to think twice about stocking these products as we will always seek to prosecute irresponsible traders.”