TEENAGERS across much of the North-East are to receive proof of age cards, highlighting the law on sales of cigarettes, solvents and alcohol.

Consumer chiefs in County Durham launched the new Connexions Card yesterday, backed by their counterparts in neighbouring Northumberland.

Cards, carrying the name, date of birth and photograph of the holder, will be distributed to all 16 to 19-year-olds still in education.

They will also be made available on request, free of charge, to all those not still in learning.

Philip Holman, Durham County Council's head of consumer services, said he hoped retailers recognised it as an easy means of checking the age of a young customer, if in doubt while selling controlled products.

Information packs are being sent to retailers offering advice on the law and steps they can take to avoid making illegal sales.

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 or a day in a recording studio.

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.

Sergeant John Zissler, of Durham Police community safety department, said "a lot of thought and planning" went into Connexions.

"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."

The age limit for purchases of alcohol, fireworks and solvents is 18, 17 for cross-bows and air weapons, 16 for party poppers, sparklers and "throw-downs", tobacco products, lottery tickets and knives, while videos and computer games come with 12, 15 and 18 classifications.

* To apply for a card online go to www.connexionscard.com or call 0808-172 3333.