Shops are warned over knife sales

Businesses who sell dangerous products to children are being targeted by officials in Leicestershire.

Volunteer youngsters will attempt to buy knives and butane lighter refills from shops and markets.

Last year a similar operation found 25% of shops tested sold either a knife or butane to a 15-year-old child.

The county council said any firms or staff caught selling such items to under-18s risked a £5,000 fine and or six months in prison.

David Bull, head of the trading standards service, said: "We work throughout the year to help businesses to comply with the law and not sell to those under 18.

"We hope that none of the shops we visit will sell, but any that do will be firmly dealt with. Our advice is simple - no ID no sale."