Licence lost over underage sales

Police said a rise in anti-social behaviour had been reported

A shop has had its licence to sell alcohol revoked after Trading Standards officers ran test purchases and twice found drink being sold to children.

The Spar Shop in Cottimore Lane, Walton-on-Thames, can now decide whether to appeal against the decision.

A reported rise in youth anti-social behaviour in the area led to council and police officers taking action, Surrey Police said on Wednesday.

Insp Paul Yearwood said selling drink to children was "wholly irresponsible".

Most businesses do want to trade legally Peter Denard

He added that selling alcohol to underage people led to problems in neighbourhoods and said: "I am convinced that crime and disorder will reduce as a result of this decision."

Elmbridge Borough Council said that sales had been made to children "as young as 16".

The decision was made by the licensing sub-committee earlier this month.

Peter Denard, from the Surrey Trading Standards Service, which applied for the licence review, said: "Preventing the illegal sale of alcohol to children is a priority for the trading standards service and we hope this action will put out a strong deterrent message.

"Most businesses do want to trade legally in such a way as to protect children from harm and we will always work with them to achieve this."