The video will start in 8 Cancel

Pierce Bronsan is 'facing jail in India' after promoting a mouth freshener with alleged links to cancer.

An image of the former James Bond has been used in adverts for brand Pan Bahar, which is associated with an addictive form of tobacco chewing.

64-year-old Pierce has reportedly been served a legal notice asking him to explain his appearance in the printed ads.

If he fails to respond with ten days, the actor could face jail or a fine of 5,000 Indian Rupees.

(Image: Youtube) (Image: Youtube) (Image: Youtube)

Pan masala, a mixture of nuts, seeds, herbs and spices, is typically chewed and spat out in red streams.

It is prohibited from sale in a number of Indian states due to its addictive qualities.

Health department director S K Arora told the Indian Express: "We have issued the notice to Pierce Brosnan through the company, and also reached out to him via social media platforms.

"If he fails to respond to the notice, he would face punishment of a fine up to Rs 5,000 or two years in prison."

Mirror Online has contacted representatives of Pierce for comment.

(Image: Youtube) (Image: Youtube)

Tobacco advertising has been banned in India since 2003.

Pierce's involvement in controversial breath freshener adverts for Pan Bahara first hit the headlines in 2016

At the time Pierce told People magazine he was "deeply shocked and saddened" by the allegations, especially as he lost his first wife Cassandra Harris to cancer.

In a statement given at the time Pierce said: "I shall endeavour to rectify this matter.

"In the meantime, please accept my sincerest and heartfelt apologies to all whom I have offended."