Last updated at 12:46, Wednesday, 27 February 2013

YOUNGSTERS trying to buy alcohol in Ulverston as part of a test purchasing operation were repeatedly denied access to booze.

Nine retailers were targeted, and a further five in Kendal, with two 15-year-old volunteers trying to buy alcohol as part of a joint operation between Cumbria County Council’s Trading Standards team and Cumbria Police.

In all cases the youths were challenged and asked to provide proof of age.

The operation also included several proxy attempts – where the juveniles asked someone over the age of 18 to buy alcohol for them – and on each occasion the sale was refused.

Angela Jones Cumbria Trading Standards Manager said: “I am very pleased that all the retailers tested refused both direct sales of alcohol and proxy sales.

“Current research indicates that proxy supply of alcohol to children by adults still substantially contributes to the access young persons have to alcohol.

“I would urge any adult who is asked to buy alcohol for individuals under the age of 18 to think carefully about their actions – it is an offence for which they can be prosecuted.”

Anyone with information regarding the possible illegal sales of alcohol, tobacco, knives, butane gas or other age restricted products can contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06 or Cumbria police on 101.

First published at 11:59, Wednesday, 27 February 2013
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk