KENT'S school children may have enjoyed the summer break, but Kent Trading Standards officers were out in force identifying traders who illegally sell cigarettes and alcohol to underage children.

At the end of August two operations targeted 15 businesses – which included large chain stores and local shops – based on reports of possible under-age sales.

Of these, three businesses made underage sales – and all were large chain stores.

Although pleased that local businesses are treating the sale of age-restricted products responsibly, Kent County Council Lead Member for Trading Standards, Paulina Stockell, is concerned about the results of the recent operations.

She said: "The larger shops all have very good procedures, including staff training and till prompts, but they don’t seem to be putting their training into action.

"There were fewer under-age sales from small corner shops."

Kent Trading Standards is continually advising traders about the licensing law, but is also committed to its policy of firm enforcement.

Although it is sometimes difficult to judge the age of a customer, retailers should ask for proof of age and if this cannot be provided, staff must refuse to sell the products.

Young people in Kent, over the age of 16, can obtain a Connexions card (free of charge) and Kent Trading Standards has provided nearly 2,000 retailers with small, hand-held card readers which authenticate the card and show the age of the person.

Retailers are advised that the recent operations form part of an on-going test purchasing campaign.

Last year, seven traders were prosecuted for selling age-restricted products to young volunteers under the supervision of Trading Standards officers.

If you have any information about shops selling age-restricted products to children, contact 08454 04 05 06. All information is held in the strictest confidence.