Raised levels of naturally occurring algal toxins have been identified in a second Argyll and Bute loch.

Monitoring work carried out by the council has identified increased levels of the toxins in Loch Striven in Cowal.

Eating shellfish such as cockles, mussels or razor fish from this area may pose a risk to human health, and notices to warn the public have been posted on the shore.

Commercial shellfish harvesters in the affected area have been contacted by the council, and steps taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels subside.

Loch Striven is the second area to be affected by raised levels of algal toxins this year. At the end of March, similar advice was issued for the Stonefield area of Loch Fyne.

The council continues to monitor the algal toxin situation across Argyll and Bute. The warning notices at Loch Striven and Stonefield will be removed when the levels sufficiently subside.

It is a sensible precaution to avoid eating shellfish from these areas until further notice.

For further information, please contact the council’s environmental health team on 01631 567920.