Cambridgeshire businesses investigated for alleged underage sales

Two businesses in Cambridgeshire are under investigation following undercover operations that uncovered the alleged sale of age-restricted products to minors. The checks were conducted over the summer by Cambridgeshire County Council Trading Standards, local licensing teams, and Volunteer Police Cadets aged 14 to 16.

During the operation, cadets attempted to purchase alcohol, vapes, and tobacco from 26 premises identified through intelligence and complaints. While most businesses complied with legal requirements by checking ages and refusing sales, two premises allegedly sold restricted items to the underage cadets.

Peter Gell, head of Trading Standards at Cambridgeshire County Council, emphasized the health risks associated with early exposure to tobacco and vapes. Authorities are encouraging all retailers to review age-verification policies and implement a ‘challenge 25’ approach to ensure legal compliance.