Council acts after shops sell vapes to teen
Telford & Wrekin Council has reinforced its commitment to safeguarding young people through recent covert investigations into illegal sales of age-restricted products.
Trading Standards officers, supported by a 16-year-old volunteer, carried out test purchases across local high streets for alcohol and vapes, to ensure businesses comply with the law.
During the operation, 80 per cent of premises complied with ID checks and refused the sale, demonstrating strong adherence to legal responsibilities.
However, two businesses unlawfully sold vaping products to the underage volunteer.
These breaches are now subject to investigation and follow-up enforcement action.
Councillor Richard Overton, Deputy Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement, said: “This operation forms part of our Winter of Action campaign, which aims to keep our borough cleaner, greener and safer throughout the festive season.
“The majority of businesses in Telford acted responsibly during this operation and complied with legislation governing age-restricted sales. Our teams work hard to support and educate retailers about their legal obligations and to safeguard young people.
“While we are pleased that most premises refused to sell to the volunteer, it is always disappointing when a retailer fails to uphold the law. We are taking appropriate action in such cases.”
It is illegal to sell alcohol or vaping products to anyone under 18. Businesses that do so risk prosecution, substantial fines, and, in the case of alcohol, the loss of their licence.
The Council strongly advises retailers to adopt the Challenge 25 policy, which requires anyone who appears under 25 to present valid photographic identification, such as a driving licence or passport.
Councillor Overton added: “Our message to businesses this winter is clear: always Challenge 25 and always ask for ID. These exercises happen all year round and across all our high streets.”
This campaign forms part of the Council’s wider enforcement activity under Telford & Wrekin Watch which takes place through the year.
To report underage alcohol or vape sales, contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service. This is the primary route for general consumer complaints in the UK, Call them at 0808 223 1133 (free) or use their online service. They will forward your report to the local Trading Standards office.