TEENAGERS who binge on cheap alcohol are being warned they could end up blind if they drink rogue vodka being sold in Swindon.

The 70cl counterfeit Spar brand Imperial Vodka contains methanol, a substance commonly used as fuel and often made into bio-diesel by farmers.

The colourless liquid is not only highly flammable but can be lethally poisonous and is normally found in antifreeze, window cleaner fluid and solvents.

Swindon Council’s environmental health team believe the drink may have originated from London and are investigating how three small outlets obtained the suspect booze.

It is not known at this stage how many small shops in the town are stocking the alcohol, but there are no concerns over genuine Spar Imperial Vodka, the company has stressed.

Dr Charlottle Kelly, of the Great Western Hospital, said that if people drank too much of the counterfeit drink they could be left permenantly blind.

“Unfortunately initially the symptoms from methanol intoxication are similar to those of ethanol (alcohol) – drowsiness, unsteady gait and slurred speech,” she said.

“They may also develop headache, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Patients may also develop blurred vision and photophobia, a dislike at looking at lights. Despite treatment they may be left with permanent visual problems and in later stages they may develop seizures and go into a coma.

“There is no specific difference between teens and adults,” said Dr Kelly. “But if patients think that they may have drunk methanol they will need to come to the Emergency Department for treatment. We will need to observe them and if their symptoms are severe to treat with an antidote.”

Janice Bardwell, team leader for environmental health in Swindon says there are concerns for youngsters or low-income families buying the £8.99 vodka because of its cheap price tag.

“These groups may put up with the taste, although it doesn’t differ greatly, because they know they have paid less for it.

“Young drinkers may mix the vodka with coke and the subtle taste is more likely to be masked.

“What I cannot stress enough is that drinking this vodka will pose a significant risk to your health. Do not drink it; if you have some please call the environmental health team.”

The environmental health team can be contacted at Premier House in station Road or by calling 01793 445500.