SHOP staff in the Redcar and Cleveland area have been brushing up on their skills to tackle the problem of under-age alcohol sales.

The authority's trading standards unit has teamed up with Bells Stores Training Centre, in Marske, and 25 sales staff from eight different retailers to tackle the issue.

The initiative, which is supported by the Community Safety Unit and Langbaurgh Primary Care Trust, deals with under-age sales and covers advice and information on the health affects of alcohol abuse as well as the links to anti-social behaviour.

Cabinet member for Community Safety Councillor Joyce Benbow said: "We've been encouraged to see retailers taking their responsibilities seriously, working together with trading standards to combat the problems associated with under-age drinking."