ARGYLL and Bute Council's environmental health team has identified raised levels of Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria in shellfish samples following routine monitoring work at Eriska Shoal, Loch Etive and Castle Stalker, Port Appin.

Eating shellfish such as cockles, mussels, oysters or razor fish from this area may pose a health risk, and warning notices for the public and casual gatherers have been posted at various locations on the shore. Commercial shellfish harvesters in the area have been contacted by the council, with steps taken to postpone harvesting until levels subside.

As a sensible precaution, people should avoid eating shellfish from this area until further notice.

The council’s monitoring work continues and, when levels subside, the warning notices will be removed.