16/12/2010 - Barrow traders praised in trading standards

Cumbria Trading Standards and Cumbria police have praised off-licenses in Barrow after all seven visited successfully passed an undercover test purchase exercise last week.

The exercise was carried out by trading standards officers and local police on Friday 10 December, and 7 premises were visited with all of them refusing to serve alcohol to the 15-year-old undercover volunteer.

Angela Jones, Cumbria Trading Standards manager, said: "I'm pleased with the results of Fridays night’s operation which is part of our crack-down on underage alcohol sales in the Christmas period."

"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. In this case give a true reflection of the necessary diligence which needs to be demonstrated with regard to the retail sale of alcohol."

Sgt Ian McClymont of Cumbria police said: "It is clear that communities feel strongly about alcohol related anti social behaviour. We will continue to work closely with Cumbria Trading Standards and other partners to tackle alcohol related anti-social behaviour.

"The results from this operation are pleasing to see, and suggest that by working with the owners of off licences, we can reduce the opportunities for young people to purchase alcohol. This type of operation has contributed towards the continued reduction of anti social behaviour in Barrow."

Anyone with any information regarding the possible supply of alcohol to underage people can let Cumbria Trading Standards know by contacting Consumer Direct on 0845 40 40 506.

ENDS

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