INVESTIGATIONS into why youngsters were sold cigarettes and lighter fuel illegally have begun by trading standards officers in Redcar and Cleveland.
Two volunteers - a 12-year-old boy and 15-year-old girl - visited a total of 17 premises in the borough. The girl was sold lighter fuel and the boy was able to buy cigarettes.
The results have disappointed trading standards officers from Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, as a similar scheme last year recorded no sales.
Now, as investigations continue, officers are urging traders to obtain guidance.
Howard Turton, principal trading standards officer, said: "Retailers must be vigilant at all times. It is their responsibility to prevent these sales taking place."
Traders can be fined up to £5,000 and face up to six months in jail for selling lighter fuel to under-18s and cigarettes to under-16s.
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