Stores heed underage drink rules

Off licences in South Gloucestershire have been praised after only two out of 10 were caught selling alcohol to under-18s in a covert operation.

The joint operation was organised by Avon and Somerset Police and Trading Standards officials.

Young volunteers attempted to buy drink at supermarkets and convenience stores in Kingswood, Oldland Common, Staple Hill and Warmley.

Staff in the two stores which did sell were issued with an on-the-spot fine.

Joint operations

Neighbourhood Pc Will Gibbs said: "We were delighted to find that 80% of the shop staff had heeded our warnings and refused to sell alcohol to our test purchasers.

"This operation is part of our ongoing efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour, which can be linked to under-age drinking.

"We will continue to carry out these joint operations to reinforce the message that selling alcohol to people under 18 is illegal and unacceptable."

South Gloucestershire Council's trading standards and licensing manager Mark Pullin said: "Those premises that refused to sell to the volunteer test purchasers will be sent a letter congratulating them on their diligence in refusing the sales and taking their responsibilities seriously."