Raised levels of naturally occurring algal toxins have been identified in further areas of Argyll and Bute.

Monitoring work carried out by the council has identified increased levels of the toxins in Loch Striven, Loch Riddon, Loch Melfort and Seil Sound.

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.

Several areas of Argyll and Bute have been affected by raised levels of algal toxins this year. Loch Scridain on Mull has been closed for the same reason since July, and the Sound of Mull at Tobermory and Aros since the middle of last month.

The council continues to monitor the algal toxin situation across Argyll and Bute. The warning notices currently in operation will be removed when the levels sufficiently subside.

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