20 sought after 'anthrax death'

Twenty people are being sought by health officials dealing with what may be the UK's first anthrax death for more than three decades.

Artist Christopher 'Pascal' Norris, 50, who worked with animal hides in the Scottish Borders town of Hawick, died last month from blood poisoning which tests show was most likely to be caused by the deadly bug.

A helpline advertised earlier today has identified 20 people that NHS Borders wishes to speak to in addition to 10 already contacted since Friday.

Mr Norris lived alone at a remote address in Stobs near Hawick which had now been sealed off.

NHS Borders said the single, self-employed craftsman made artworks and musical instruments, some which involved untreated animal hides, which may have contained anthrax spores.

Officials are trying to trace people who have been in his house during the last four weeks in case they have touched the infected hides and contracted the bug.

The people already contacted, and those who have just been identified, have been or will be offered advice and precautionary antibiotic treatment where appropriate.

Ten people have already been prescribed antibiotics.

While doctors have stressed to residents living nearby that the disease is not contagious and therefore is no danger to the general public, anyone who has visited the Black Lodge since July 17 is encouraged to ring the helpline on 08000 282 816.

Anyone who recently removed any articles from the dead man's house are also being advised to double bag the items and phone the NHS Borders helpline for advice.