THREE shopkeepers in North-West Durham face losing their alcohol licences after selling alcohol to under-age teenagers in a police sting operation.

Police sent youngsters aged just 14 into all 34 off-licences in the Consett area with instructions to try to buy drink.

The teenagers made 77 visits and most stores turned them down. But six shops, which have not been named, handed over alcohol without question - and three of them were each caught out three times.

Derwentside licensing officer Sgt Tim Robson said: "The vast majority of businesses came through the test with flying colours and flatly refused to serve customers who were clearly under age.

"Those who failed will get what they deserve."

During the ten-day operation the group of teenagers visited stores in Consett, Delves Lane, The Grove, Moorside, Blackhill, Shotley Bridge and Leadgate.

Sgt Robson said he would be making formal applications to the magistrates to revoke the licences of the worst offenders, a move that, if successful, will effectively ban the stores from selling alcohol.

The three stores which only broke the law once will be sent a warning letter.

Sgt Robson said: "The traders can have been under no illusions.

"They have all been warned, in writing, of the sanctions they face.

"It is not the first time we have carried out such an operation and it will most definitely not be the last."