Seventy-seven local businesses have been visited by the Council and police as part of a clampdown on underage sales since the change in licensing laws.
Pubs, supermarkets, off-licenses and petrol stations were all targeted in the undercover operation that took place during November and December.
As a result:
- 17 businesses were fined after selling alcohol to a 14-year-old. Find out who these businesses are.
- 28 fixed penalty notices were issued
- two businesses were told to overhaul the way they train their staff.
Court case
Elsewhere, the licensee of Abbey Wood Village Store was found guilty at Marylebone Magistrates’ Court of selling alcohol to a 16-year-old and was fined £150 and £300 costs. This related to an operation in April last year.
Council takes a tough stance
Leader of the Council Chris Roberts said: "I am disappointed these premises have chosen to flout the law by selling alcohol to children.
"The Council takes a tough stance on this issue, and we want to reinforce the message that underage sales will not be tolerated in the borough.
"The laws on alcohol sales are there to protect children, which is why it is important they are enforced. There is also the problem of anti-social behaviour that can result from excessive drinking."
Find out more about the new licensing laws.
5 January 2006