A PUB and three shops have been fined after they were caught selling alcohol to children.

The two boys aged 15 and 16 tried to buy alcohol at 15 Southampton shops, clubs and pubs as part of an undercover operation by Hampshire police.

The majority refused to sell alcohol to the trained test purchasers but the four premises that illegally served them have been referred to the licensing department. The individuals that made the sales were also fined £90 each.

Now Hampshire Constabulary is warning retailers that they will continue to take action against those who break the law by selling alcohol to children.

PC Russ Smith, who organised the test purchasing check, said: “This has highlighted some serious failings at licensed premises who are not effectively challenging children who are attempting to buy alcohol from their store or pub.

“In some cases the premises had a challenge 25 policy but the children were not questioned at all, or even asked for ID, clearly breaching the policy.

“Effects to the community of children buying alcohol range from anti-social behaviour on the streets to long-term health implications.

“We will continue to run test purchase operations until the management at the shops, pubs and clubs have made the required improvements necessary to prevent children from buying alcohol from them.”