Health officials are investigating nine cases of E.coli 0157 in Scotland which has been linked to venison.

Nine people across the country have contracted the same strain of the potentially fatal bug after eating products including sausages, steaks and meatballs, which were cooked at home.

It is believed the deer meat had been bought from various retailers and an investigation has now been launched by health and food standards officials.

Dr Syed Ahmed, of Health Protection Scotland, said it was important that all deer meat was cooked thoroughly and not eaten medium or rare.

He added the risk of E.coli infection could be reduced by careful hand-washing and making sure food is always properly prepared.