Underage drinkers to be targeted

A crackdown on underage drinking is to take place in Lancashire over the festive period.

Lancashire Police, together with Trading Standards, will carry out test purchases at shops in a bid to trap traders who sell to under 18-year-olds.

Alongside test purchases using underage youngsters, the police will also investigate instances where adults buy alcohol on behalf of minors.

People who buy on behalf of youngsters face fines of up to £5,000 if caught.

David Johnnie, of Lancashire Trading Standards, said: "Buying alcohol by proxy is on the increase and we are keen to send out a clear message to people in Lancashire that this type of activity will not be tolerated."

Lancashire Constabulary's Ass Ch Con Wendy Walker urged anyone with information about people buying for children to get in touch.

The joint initiative is set to take place over the next two weeks as part of Operation Shepherd, which aims to tackle and prevent alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour in the run up to, and during, Christmas and New Year.