TEENAGERS across County Durham are to receive proof of age cards, highlighting the law on sales of cigarettes, solvents and alcohol.

County council consumer officials launched the new Connexions Card which will also be on offer to teenagers in neighbouring Northumberland.

Cards, carrying the name, date of birth and photograph of the holder, will be distributed to all 16-19-year-olds still in education. They will also be made available on request, free of charge, to those not still in learning.

County head of consumer services Philip Holman said he hoped retailers would recognise the card as an easy means of checking the age of a young customer while selling controlled products.

"I'd encourage traders to ask for the card and check the details to ensure they comply with their legal responsibilities. Where proof of age cannot be produced, then I'd urge them to adopt a policy of no proof, no sale."

Information packs are being sent to retailers offering advice on the law.

This is backed up by posters and stickers advising customers their premises adopt a 'No Proof, No Sale' policy.

Cardholders earn points redeemable for discounted or free branded goods and services, including VIP concert tickets.

Deputy county council leader Don Ross said the scheme provides benefits for both young people and retailers and he urged them to make use of the card.

Sgt John Zissler, of Durham Police community safety department, said: "We're delighted to see it being launched.

"From a police point-of-view under-age drinking is a constant source of complaints from the public, so we would applaud anything encouraging retailers to sell only to those who can prove their age."

* Application forms for the cards are available from www.connex ionscard.com or via the freephone line 0808-172 3333.