WHITEHAVEN off-licences have been praised as the majority of them refused to sell alcohol to an underage volunteer during an uncover operation.

Cumbria County Council’s Trading Standards and Cumbria Police recently targeted 10 off-licence premises in the Whitehaven area. 

They found that 90 per cent of retailers successfully challenged the underage volunteer for proof of age identity before declining to sell age-restricted alcohol.

Anyone selling alcohol to underage people is liable to a £90 on the spot fine and further offences could lead to a fine of up to £20,000 or the shop losing its alcohol licence.

Coun John McCreesh, Cumbria County Council Cabinet member for Trading Standards, said: "I am pleased to see that the majority of retailers tested complied with their legal obligations, but it’s disappointing that one business failed to identify a young person to whom alcohol was then sold.

"We will be repeating this exercise over the coming weeks, so I’d remind businesses that they should ask for identification that proves a person is 18-years or older, such as a passport, driving licence or proof of age card, before selling age- restricted products to young people. Additionally I would warn businesses to be vigilant and to challenge any adults who may be purchasing alcohol on behalf of an underage person.

"Our staff work closely with traders to ensure compliance with the law throughout the year and these undercover checks form a vital part of ensuring compliance."

Coun Ian Stewart, Cumbria County Council Cabinet member for Public Health, added: “Young people should be aware that drinking can have an impact on their health and not drinking is the healthiest option. Parents and carers have an important role to play and they should be aware that their own drinking behaviour can influence children and young people.” 

Anyone with any information about the possible supply of alcohol to underage people can let Cumbria Trading Standards know by contacting Citizen Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.