Fake vodka warning

‘Drop’ branded vodka

Trading Standards officials are warning people to be on their guard after three bottles of ‘Drop’ branded vodka (pictured) seized from a Rochdale off licence were found to contain a chemical normally used in cleaning fluid or aerosol de-icers.

Rochdale Borough Council officers visited the store after a complaint from a member of the public that a bottle he had bought, “tasted like cleaning fluid.”

Although the products are deemed not be harmful, residents are being strongly advised not to consume any vodka they have doubts any about.

Two tell-tale signs to look out for are a cheap looking label and the absence of any manufacturer’s details.

Anyone who has bought or seen a bottle they are suspicious about should call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

Councillor Martin Burke, Cabinet Member for Internal and Environmental Services, said: "We are appealing to the public not to buy or consume any vodka they have doubts about, but to report it as soon as possible. It is abhorrent that anyone should be attempting to deceive people in such a way and we are determined to put a stop to it.”