Toxins warning at three Scots lochs

A HEALTH warning has been issued over eating shellfish from three Western Isles lochs.

Monitoring work undertaken on behalf of the Food Standards Agency has identified raised levels of shellfish toxins in Loch Seaforth on Lewis, East Loch Tarbert in the Sound of Scalpay and Loch Stockinish in Harris.

A spokesman for Western Isles Council said it was monitoring the situation, adding: “Eating shellfish such as mussels, cockles or razor fish from these areas may pose a risk to human health and notices to warn the public and casual gatherers will be posted at various locations on the shore.

“Commercial shellfish harvesters in these areas have been contacted by the council and steps taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels subside.”