The message below has been circulated via Dog Watch and come from Thames Valley Police. I thought if these chemicals are damgerous to farmers storing or applying them, then dog walkers must also be warned as most of us walk our dogs over farmland or on public footpaths and bridleways.

1. Counterfeit Agrochemicals

Police have received reports that dangerous counterfeit agrochemicals are being illegally imported into Europe. The counterfeiters are using well known brand names including Granstar, Harmony, Score, Reglone, Gaucho, Prestige, Raxil & Nurelle.  The chemicals are being distributed throughout the UK as genuine products; they are untested, unsafe and potentially hazardous causing health risks to farmers applying or storing these chemicals.   Do not purchase other than from your usual regular reputable sources and if in doubt contact the manufacturer directly to verify the source.