SHOPS in Launceston have been caught selling tobacco and alcohol to children by Cornwall Trading Standards.

The service said the latest testing of shops for their willingness to illegally sell cigarettes, e-cigarettes and alcohol to children has produced ‘some disappointing results’.

Cornwall’s Trading Standards completed a test purchase operation in Launceston, targeting illegal sales of tobacco and alcohol to children.

It said three of the seven businesses visited failed the test and sold tobacco or alcohol to a 17-year-old volunteer.

Elizabeth Kirk, senior Trading Standards officer, said: “Some of the shops visited were excellent, ensuring that they asked our volunteer for a proof of age. “However, we were disappointed that this did not happen in every case. All of the traders tested will be informed of the result, and guidance on how to comply with the law surrounding age restricted sales will be given where appropriate.

“Most smokers develop the habit way before they are 18 years old — the legal age at which you can buy tobacco. It is important, therefore, that shops are robust in preventing sales to children to help lower the number of future smokers.”

The test purchase operation forms part of a week of tobacco control activities from Trading Standards and Public Health. Running from October 3 to 8, the Tobacco Control week also coincides with Stoptober, the national NHS campaign to help smokers kick the habit.