A shop in Fulwood has been caught selling alcohol to two teenagers.
Lancashire Police undertook test purchases across nine shops and pubs in Preston and South Ribble last week.
Police confirmed to Blog Preston during Tuesday 17 February a shop in Fulwood – which police have declined to name – was visited by two 15-year-old volunteers.
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The shop staff failed to carry out required age-verification checks and sold a bottle of alcohol to the two teenagers.
Police say they are investigating the premises which has previously been found selling alcohol to children.
The test purchase operation took place following concerns raised by members of the public to police about the potential unlawful sale of alcohol.
South Division licensing sergeant Dean Khan said: “Test purchase operations like this are vital in protecting young people from harm.
“I’m pleased that the vast majority of premises we visited acted responsibly and refused the sale.
“However, one failure is still one too many. Selling alcohol to children puts them at real risk, and we will continue to work closely with local businesses to ensure they understand their responsibilities and meet the standards expected of them.”
The police were supported by Lancashire County Council’s trading standards team in the operation.
Cabinet member for rural affairs, environment and communities county councillor Joshua Roberts said: “Our hard‑working Trading Standards team were out in force during the half term school holidays, checking that shops were being responsible and not selling age-restricted products to children.
“Our Trading Standards team instructed underage test purchasers aged 13-16 to try to buy vapes, cigarettes and alcohol at 47 businesses across the county.
“This operation, working alongside Lancashire Police officers, sends a clear message that we will continue to take firm and decisive action against any traders who choose to break the law.
“Protecting young people from harm is one of our highest priorities, and targeted activity like this is essential in ensuring that businesses fully understand and uphold their legal responsibilities. Selling alcohol to underage test sellers is simply unacceptable.
“By working proactively with local retailers and licensees, we can strengthen compliance, raise standards, and promote safe, responsible trading across all our communities.”
Anyone who has concerns about shops selling age-restricted products to young people can report it via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08082231133 or to Lancashire Police on 101.
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