Shellfish lovers warned over toxins

People are being warned not to eat shellfish gathered from part of Argyll and Bute because of a rise in levels of a naturally-occurring toxin.

The algal toxins have occurred in the Kilbrannan Sound. Areas affected include Campbeltown Loch, Kildalloig Bay, Carradale Bay, Saddell Bay, Machrie Bay and Pirnmill.

Argyll and Bute Council has warned that eating shellfish such as cockles, mussels or razor clams from these areas may pose a risk to human health.

Notices have been put up to warn the public and casual gatherers about the risk, and commercial shellfish harvesters have been contacted by the council.

Harvesting will be postponed until algae levels subside.

A council spokesman said: “It is a sensible precaution to avoid eating shellfish from this area until further notice.”