CUSTOMS officers at Poole port discovered a large quantity of vodka being smuggled in a lorry carrying lampshades and light fittings early yesterday morning.

A total of 12,096 litres of vodka was found on the freight lorry as it arrived from Cherbourg on the Brittany Ferries vessel Coutances.

During a search of the Portuguese-registered vehicle, cases of Grants vodka were found behind the glassware. The duty evaded amounted to around £104,200.

The 38-year-old Portuguese lorry driver was arrested and interviewed by Customs Officers. He was released on bail without charge pending further enquiries.

Customs law enforcement spokesman Bob Gaiger said: "This is another excellent detection.

It is the fourth large seizure of vodka at Poole Ferryport in four months."