Torfaen Council’s Trading Standards team are conducting enforcement visits to shops and pubs following an increase in complaints regarding underage drinking and the sale of alcohol to young people.

Off-licences and public houses risk an unlimited fine if found guilty of committing an offence of supplying alcohol to a minor. The premises may also be subject to a licence review and their alcohol licence being revoked.

Cllr Mandy Owen, Torfaen’s Executive Member responsible for Trading Standards, said: “During the summer we have seen an increase in young people under the influence of alcohol who are engaging in anti-social behaviour and crime, causing harm to both themselves and their local communities. Any adult who purchases alcohol on behalf of a child, known as a proxy sale, is also committing a criminal offence and can be fined up to £1000 upon conviction.

“As Covid restrictions are easing, our enforcement officers will be conducting test purchasing of underage products and action will be taken against any pub or off-licence found to be selling alcohol to children.”

If any residents are concerned that children in their local area are obtaining alcohol from pubs or off-licences, they can report their concerns to Trading Standards on email at [email protected] or to the Police on 101.