At a time of unprecedented concern over Britain's binge drinking culture, Richmond Council is making further efforts to stem the supply of alcohol to one vulnerable group: under-age children.

Trading standards officers have embarked on a crackdown on sales to youngsters, using children to make test purchases and unmask those shopkeepers who sell liquor illegally.

The Hampton and Barnes areas have been targeted, resulting in proof of one illegal sale in Barnes, out of visits to four separate shops, where lager was sold to a girl of 15. The shopkeeper concerned could face prosecution and a hefty fine.

A number of prosecutions are already in the pipeline, the next being on September 6 when a Barnes shopowner faces Richmond Magistrates. If convicted, the licensee faces a maximum fine of £1,000 and risks having his liquor licence revoked.

Richmond's Leader, Cllr Tony Arbour, also Cabinet Member for Combating Crime, said: "In Richmond upon Thames we are determined to prevent retail sales of alcohol to under-age youngsters.

"Drinking brings in its wake problems such as violence, vandalism and graffiti.

"Children are unable to handle its effects, and shopkeepers must not allow alcohol to get into their hands. We will crack down hard on those traders who break the law and always press for the highest penalties.

"We are carrying out more than ten blitzes throughout the borough this year and it is encouraging that our campaign has shown that illegal sales locally are down. Our aim is to stamp them out completely."

Thursday, August 5, 2004

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