AN OFF-LICENCE in Southampton has been banned from selling booze after alcohol was sold to teenagers as young as 15.

Police and Trading Standards carried out two test purchase operations at Best One in Millbrook Road East, selling youngsters under 18 in to attempt to buy alcohol.

On the first occasion, on November 11, cans of lager were sold to two youngsters aged 15 and 16.

And on the second time, on January 30, cans of lager were sold to two 16-year-olds.

The staff members who sold the alcohol were fined £90 on each occasion, but now the police have acted to stop the store selling alcohol for 48 hours.

The order will take effect at midday on February 27 and end on March 1.

PC Alex Boucouvalas, said: “It is important that licensees and their employees understand the harm that selling alcohol to young people can do, both to the individuals and to the local community.“Selling alcohol to children will not be tolerated and we will continue to work with Trading Standards to protect children from harm and ensure retailers don't break the law.

“Anyone who has information about premises that sell alcohol to minors should contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team.”