Sandwiches currently being sold in a town could be contaminated.

Horsham District Council is warning people about food poisoning bacteria which could be in packaged sandwiches sold in the town’s shops.

The alert comes after a range of baguettes, sandwiches and rolls were found to contain the bacteria listeria monocytogenes.

The NHS says the bacteria can cause an infection called listeriosis, which causes sickness, diarrhoea and aches and pains.

It is a mild infection for most people, but it can be serious for pregnant women, newborn babies and those with weak immunity.

The affected products are produced by the Bread Spread, Orbital Foods and Perfect Bite brands and are all made at the same premises in Southall, London.

An unknown number of the contaminated products may have been supplied to corner shops and convenience stores in Horsham.

Councillor Jay Mercer, Horsham District Council cabinet member for the environment, waste and recycling said: “This bacteria can cause serious illness in people, particularly those aged over 65 years.

"Our Environmental Health team is taking steps to remove any of the affected products from sale where they are found and is encouraging shop owners to check their stocks in case they may have been supplied with these products.

"Members of the public are strongly urged to dispose of any of the affected products they may have purchased, as they must not be consumed.”