55 premises visited in four-day police operation checking for under-age sales across North Northamptonshire
More than 50 premises were visited during a police-led operation to ensure age-restricted products are not getting into the hands of young people.
Northamptonshire Police recently completed the proactive test purchase operation aimed at supporting retailers in complying with legislation surrounding the sale of age-restricted items.
The activity also formed part of the national Sceptre week of action, which focuses on tackling knife crime through enforcement, education and engagement with communities and retailers.
The four-day operation saw officers visit 55 premises across North Northamptonshire, working alongside trained Emergency Services Cadets aged 15 to 17.
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to protect young people and prevent inappropriate access to restricted products.
Results from the four-day operation
- 55 premises visited
- nine failures identified, helping officers target further support and action
- one per cent failure rate among stores selling restricted items that met enforcement criteria
- four per cent failure rate among stores outside national enforcement criteria or no longer selling restricted items
Neighbourhood Police Constable, Michael Ryan, who led the operation, said: “These test purchase operations are an important way for us to work proactively with retailers and ensure age-restricted products are not getting into the hands of young people.
“It’s really positive to see so many businesses doing the right thing and following Challenge 25, but where we do identify issues, we will take the time to provide guidance and, if necessary, take further action.
"Our aim is to support retailers while keeping our communities safe.”
Police say the operation provided valuable opportunities to engage directly with businesses, reinforce best practice, and recognise the many retailers who are consistently applying age-verification policies such as Challenge 25.
But the results also show there is still work to be done.
A small number of failures, including some repeat issues, will now be followed up with targeted support and, where necessary, enforcement action to improve standards.
Neighbourhood policing teams will continue working closely with local businesses, providing guidance, advice and reassurance to strengthen compliance.
Officers say the operation was also a positive experience for the Emergency Services Cadets involved, giving them the opportunity to contribute to real policing activity in a safe and controlled environment, where safeguarding remained a priority throughout.
Prevention and Intervention Chief Inspector, Oliver Charter, said: “It’s encouraging to see that many retailers are taking their responsibilities seriously and refusing sales where appropriate. However, the number of failures shows that there is still work to be done.
“These operations are about protecting young people and our communities. We will continue to work with businesses to improve compliance and take enforcement action where needed.”
Police have said all activity was carried out in line with national standards and best practice guidance.
Northamptonshire Police will continue to carry out similar operations as part of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding young people, supporting responsible retailing, and reducing access to age-restricted items.