AN operation carried out by police and trading standards officers has been followed by a warning that they will take a tough line on off-licences and shops which sell alcohol to children.

Two 15-year-old girls were sent into premises in York and managed to buy drink in five of the seven outlets which they visited.

All the shops which failed the test could now face prosecution.

Councillor Tracey Simpson-Laing, acting environment spokeswoman for City of York Council, said: "The council is deeply concerned about the health and social damage caused by under-age drinking. We are disappointed some retailers have failed to obey the law."

York licensing officer, PC Ashley Fitzhugh, said: "Youth crime and disorder is linked to alcohol abuse and the police expect licensees to be strict with young customers. For those who break the law, revocation of the liquor licence may result."

York's trading standards chief, Colin Rumford, warning of more inspections, said parents also had to make sure that their children were not drinking illegally.