Shops in Carlisle and Workington have been praised following efforts to crack down on youngsters attempting to buy cigarettes and vapes.

The test purchasing operation was conducted by Cumberland Council on Tuesday, July 9 in Carlisle and Wednesday, July 10 in Workington.

The council’s Trading Standards service carried out the operation by making undercover visits to the stores to find out if their age would be checked before purchasing the items.

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All 17 of the retail stores visited handled the scenario appropriately, asking for identification from underage volunteers and subsequently refusing a sale.

Laws governing the sale of such items make it a criminal act to sell the products to anyone under 18 or make purchases for them.

Non-compliance could lead to traders facing prosecution and possible fines of up to £2,500.

Cumberland councillor and executive member for policy and regulatory services, Cllr Bob Kelly, said: "I’m delighted to see that all 17 of the shops visited throughout this operation have complied with the laws and legislation which prohibit the sale of cigarettes and 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."

He added: "This operation very much follows Cumberland Council’s policy of warning and advising traders before any offences are committed."