A shop in Bamber Bridge has been shut down by authorities after being found to be repeatedly selling illicit tobacco and vapes.
Europe Mini Market, on School Lane, had six Trading Standards inspections between November 2023 and October 2025 with thousands of illegal tobacco products seized.
They also failed test purchasing operations, selling illicit tobacco and non-compliant vapes to officers – and a child.
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The closure notice was served on the shop by Lancashire Constabulary on Thursday (6 November) and a closure order was granted a Preston Magistrates’ Court on Friday (7 November).
The store must remain closed until 7 February 2026 and anyone found on the premises could face arrest and further police action.
Sgt Paul Harrison, from Lancashire Constabulary’s South Ribble Task Force, said: “Working closely with Lancashire Trading Standards and other partners, we have secured a Closure Order through the courts to put a stop to this activity. This should send a clear message that selling illicit tobacco and vapes will not be tolerated in South Ribble.
“We’re grateful to the public for sharing information that helped us to achieve this outcome. Your support is vital, and we encourage you to keep reporting concerns so we can continue tackling issues like this, which often lead to anti-social behaviour in surrounding areas”
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