BOTTLES of Bombay Sapphire gin are being recalled - because they contain too much alcohol.

Batches in Canada are being recalled by the country's health authorities, who say a "small number" of bottles contain nearly double the advertised amount of alcohol.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency said the bottles were found to contain 77% alcohol, rather than the typical 40%.

An "isolated customer complaint" followed by a series of product checks sparked the recall, according to owner Bacardi.

The firm sells alcohol products around the world including Grey Goose Vodka and several well-known rum products.

The firm says the affected batch is only being sold in Canada, and people who return bottles will have their money refunded.

A spokesman added: "We do not recommend consumption of this product."

The recall started in Ontario but the move was soon followed by four other liquor authorities across the country.

A spokesman for the Ontario Liquor Control Board said: "One batch was bottled before correct dilution to achieve the stated 40% alcohol content by volume.

"As a result, the affected batch has alcohol content by volume of 77%.

"This product is not safe for consumption. Consuming a product with an alcohol content of 77% could cause serious illness."

No illnesses associated with the faulty batch have been reported.