A Cumbrian shop has been ordered to close for three months for the persistent sale of illegal tobacco and vapes.
Since April this year, Trading Standards officers have seized 23,031 illicit cigarettes, 19.05kg of hand-rolling tobacco, and 455 illegal vapes.
European Mini Market in Kirkby Stephen’s Market Square was issued with the closure order by Carlisle Magistrates Court under anti-social behaviour legislation yesterday, Wednesday June 24.
It followed a joint operation by Westmorland and Furness Trading Standards and the Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Carlisle Magistrates Court heard that the business had been subject to multiple enforcement visits since it began trading in April.
During their third visit, Trading Standards officers deployed a tobacco detection dog, which located illegal tobacco concealed within the staircase leading to the first floor of the premises.
A further inspection in February this year resulted in officers discovering cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco hidden within the base of a chair.
The council’s Trading Standards team said it applied for the closure order to protect the local community and prevent further harm.
Councillor John Murray, Westmorland and Furness Council’s cabinet member for transport and regulatory services, said: “This closure demonstrates our firm commitment to tackling the illegal sale of tobacco and vapes and protecting our communities from the harm they cause.
“Businesses that choose to operate outside the law, particularly those persistently selling illicit goods, will face robust enforcement action.
“These products undermine legitimate traders, evade taxes, and can pose serious risks to public health. We will continue to work closely with our partners in Cumbria police to identify and take action against those responsible.”
Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Mo Bibby said: “This closure order follows a significant amount of work over recent weeks and months from Eden officers and Trading Standards officers.
“We are aware this business has caused substantial concerns within the community, and we’re pleased the courts have granted the order to put a halt to their activity. Premises which promote the sale of illicit goods show a clear disregard for the law, the local authority and the safety of the public by selling unregulated products.
“We’re committed to working with our partners, including Trading Standards, to take action wherever they are being sold and these efforts will not stop.”
