HEALTH officials have completed their investigation into the E.coli outbreak that left 11 people ill.

They say tests have "strengthened the link" with cold cooked meats sold by a butcher's shop in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, that closed voluntarily earlier this month after the problem came to light.

Castle Bank Butchers, in Front Street, has been at the centre of the investigation by the area's outbreak control team.

Those affected by the E.coli 0157 bug ranged from a young child to a pensioner. Four needed hospital treatment.

Symptoms of the infection can range from mild diarr-hoea to a severe illness that can cause kidney damage.

Control team chairman Dr Deb Wilson said: "Investigations into the possible source of the outbreak have now been completed.

"Further laboratory results have strengthened the link between the cases and consumption of cold cooked meat products purchased from Castle Bank Butchers, in Chester-le-Street."

The shop re-opened on July 8 for the sale of raw meat products only, she said. It is expected to resume sale of cooked meat products soon.

A spokeswoman for the Durham and Chester-le-Street Primary Care Trust said the team would submit a full report on the outbreak, and the action taken, to a future meeting of the trust's board.

A spokesman for Chester-le-Street District Council, whose environmental health officers were involved in the investigation, said: "The council is still gathering additional information to decide on the most appropriate action to be taken with regard to the butchers. A decision on whether to prosecute will be taken in due course.