Published Friday 3 June 2016 at 11:45
Twelve off-licences came up trumps after refusing to sell alcohol to under-age test purchasers.
A team of officers from Blackburn with Darwen Council’s public protection department and local police led an operation to ensure under-18s are not being sold alcohol.
The shops were spread across Blackburn and Darwen with some, having previously sold alcohol to under-18s, being re-checked after being given warnings.
All refused to sell alcohol to the test purchasers, aged 15 and 16, who requested lager.
The success of the operation was particularly pleasing given partnership work with local agencies, including the Police, to reduce alcohol harms is one of the key priorities laid in Blackburn with Darwen Council’s alcohol strategy for 2014-17.
Councillor Jim Smith, Executive Member for Environment, said:
This is a great result and commendable operation all-round. Underage drinking is a scourge that needs to be tackled head on in this manner. We continue to target premises using intelligence received from the community, so if you have concerns about any pub, club or off-licence in the Borough please let us know.
Jason Middleton, Police Licensing Sergeant for Blackburn with Darwen, said:
It’s encouraging that licensed premises are taking their responsibilities seriously in regards to preventing under 18s obtaining alcohol. They need to keep up the good work but not be complacent and to continue challenging anyone who appears underage. If anyone does have any concerns regarding under 18s obtaining alcohol then report it and Lancashire Police, working with Blackburn with Darwen Trading Standards, will act on the information.
Any reports of underage sales should be made to Citizens Advice consumer helpline 03454 04 05 06 or via email to: publicprotection@blackburn.gov.uk