Issue 317 – Two pubs caught selling alcohol to under-18s

Police and trading standards have been out in Frome checking licensed premises are not selling alcohol to ‘under 18s’.

In the run up to Christmas four premises were visited by police and trading standards as part of a test-purchasing operation.
Someone who was aged under 18 attempted to buy alcohol at each of the pubs. They were refused entry to one premises and refused service at another but unfortunately two premises sold alcohol without asking for any identification. Fixed penalty notices were issued to the two barmen for selling alcohol to ‘under 18s’.
Speaking about the operation, Frome town centre beat manager PC Rachel Clark said, “We regularly conduct test purchasing operations to ensure licensed premises are operating lawfully. It is great that two premises were responsible and did not serve the teenager with alcohol but I am really disappointed that some pubs are still ignoring the rules. Not only does it flout their license but it is irresponsible as alcohol often contributes to anti-social behaviour in the area.”
David Hall, cabinet member for strategic planning and economic development added, “Trading Standards works in partnership with the police to reduce the availability of alcohol to young people. It is disappointing that these pubs have been found to be selling alcohol to underage children. Trading Standards can prosecute the business owners and will be carrying out an investigation of these cases as well as supporting the fixed penalty notice to barmen who actually sell the alcohol.”
If you have information about pubs selling alcohol to young people please report it to Trading Standards on 01823 357261.