A SUPERMARKET caught selling counterfeit and potentially poisonous drink has had its alcohol licence revoked.

Ocean Supermarket, in North Station Road, Colchester, was found to be selling fake vodka.

Owner Hawker Korshid said he bought the drink from a cash-and-carry and had no idea it was counterfeit.

Mr Korshid said: “Why would I risk my livelihood on a bottle of vodka which will fetch a few quid?

“I have a family, children and loans.

“I bought this from a cash-and-carry, like everyone else.

“How could I have known? I don’t know how this happened and I am shocked.”

Mr Korshid said he plans to appeal the decision.

The decision was made by Colchester Council ’s licensing sub-committee in a behind-closed-doors meeting.

Mr Korshid has 21 days to appeal and can continue to sell alcohol until the 21 days is up.

Michael Lilley, a councillor on the licensing sub-committee, said: “It was the right decision.

“Selling counterfeit goods cannot be tolerated, especially ones that could prove to be unsafe for the public to consume.”

A Colchester Council spokes-man said the full transcript of the decision was not being made public at this time.

However, the reasons for the decision has been made available to the licence holder.

Trading Standards officers are considering taking further legal action against Ocean Supermarket.

The Gazette has agreed not to mention further details so the investigation is not compromised.

An Essex Council spokesman said: “The licensing hearing forms part of an ongoing investigation.

“Essex Council’s Trading Standards team is working with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs to ensure our residents are able to purchase legitimate alcohol from all stores in the area.”