SEVEN shops visited in a test purchase operation by police and Trading Standards officers in two Kent towns were found to be selling fireworks and alcohol to underage children.

The operation was held over the recent half term holiday in Folkestone and Dover.

Five of the retailers sold alcohol and two retailers sold fireworks to the underage "actors" who were used in the sting operation.

It was part of a Safer Autumn campaign which has been set up to tackle anti-social behaviour and alcohol-fuelled crime and disorder which tends to go up slightly over half term, Halloween and Bonfire Night.

It followed community intelligence from residents and police community support officers (PCSOs) about certain premises suspected of selling booze and fireworks to children.

Licensing officer, PC Steve Alexander, said: “Drunk youths cause a strain on resources especially on Friday and Saturday nights causing a nuisance and fear of crime.

"Certain shops do not help the situation, preferring to add profits to their tills without considering the consequences to either the children they sell to or the wider community."

Mark Rolfe, Trading Standards manager for East Kent, said: “Many businesses take a very responsible approach to ensure that children do not purchase alcohol from them.

"Some, however, do not and operations of this type play an important part in preventing children being caused harm by having access to alcohol and also in protecting communities from anti-social behaviour which can result.

"Our message to businesses is clear: check for proof of age and if you are in doubt over the young person’s age do not sell alcohol to them.".

The retailers that were caught selling to children will be dealt with by Trading Standards legal department and Kent Police is considering making an application to the Local Authority for a review of their licences which could result in it being suspended or revoked.”

Anyone with information about the sale of alcohol to children is asked to contact their local neighbourhood policing team. They can also call Consumer Direct on 0845040506 or log onto www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/kent/youcanhelp.htm. You do not have to give your details.