Eleven shops in north Cumbria have been praised for refusing to sell vapes to under-18s.
Cumberland Council’s Trading Standards and police officers visited the shops in Carlisle and Brampton last Thursday.
All of the retail premises visited challenged the underage volunteers for identification before refusing the sale.
There are strict laws on nicotine vaping products, and it is a criminal offence to sell them to under-18s or purchase them on their behalf.
Traders found to be breaking these rules risk being prosecuted and fined up to £2,500.
Bob Kelly, Cumberland councillor and executive member for policy and regulatory services, said: “I’m delighted to see that all 11 of the shops visited throughout this operation have complied with the laws and legislation which prohibits the sale of nicotine containing vape products to those under the age of 18.
“This is a fantastic result, and testament to the hard work of our Trading Standards team who work alongside Cumberland business owners to ensure that their wares are safe and legal”.
Carlisle Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Andy Leather said: “This operation is part of the work ongoing to ensure that stores are being vigilant in challenging those they suspect may be underage.
“We are pleased that the 11 stores tested challenged the underage volunteers for identification, and hope this acts as a warning to other stores to ensure they’re challenging those they believe might be underage, who have a professional duty not to sell alcohol or vapes to children.”
