A SOUTH Lakeland pub licensee has been ordered to pay more than £2,700 for selling ‘dangerous’ alcohol.

Paul Latham, of Yakkers Pub at Allithwaite, near Grange-over-Sands, pleaded guilty to three charges under the Food Safety Act 1990, relating to unfit and misdescribed vodka, when he appeared before Furness magistrates.

Tests on a bottle of Glens vodka, revealed that what was actually being sold was denatured alcohol, together with methanol and ethyl acetate.

A Public Analyst expert concluded the product was unsafe.

The discovery was made following a routine evening inspection by Cumbria Trading Standards.

Latham was fined £1,000 for the offences and told to pay costs of £1,730.90 and a £15 victim surcharge.

Angela Jones, Cumbria Trading Standards service manager, said: “Spirit substitution is a means of deceiving consumers into paying over the odds for a cheaper product and gives the trader an unfair advantage over other pubs, restaurants and bars in their area.

“During difficult trading periods, licensees might be tempted to substitute or water down their spirits to increase profit margins - but if detected Trading Standards will take these matters seriously.

“Substituted spirits also carry the risk of causing harm to any customers consuming them. Any traders engaging in product substitution can expect to face legal action.

“Consumers are entitled to expect that the products they purchase are genuine, safe, and that they are paying a fair price. I am satisfied that the right action has been taken in this case to protect consumers and honest businesses.”

Anyone who suspects products may not be genuine should contact Cumbria Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline, on 08454 04 05 06.