Information on Loughborough

Off licenses in Loughborough get tested

Posted on 30/09/2009

police,constabulary,leicestershire police Off licenses in Loughborough get tested

Police in Loughborough have carried out a test purchasing operation at off licenses in Shepshed and the town. 

On Friday 25th September 2009, 33 off licenses were visited by a test purchaser who was under the age of eighteen; 24 of them queried the test purchaser’s age and refused to serve alcohol – a 73% success rate.  Of the nine premises that did break the law, four are based in the town centre.  All the sellers were given £80 Fixed Penalty Notices. 

Sergeant Andy Thornley from the town centre neighbourhood team, said; “As part of our campaign to reduce alcohol fuelled crime and disorder in Loughborough we are checking that licensed premises are abiding by the law and refusing to sell alcohol to the under 18s.  

“I am really pleased that nearly three quarters of the off-licenses we tested did ask for identification as they should do.   I’d like to congratulate the sellers who challenged the young person and asked for ID and I will be writing to them individually to say thanks. 

“I am however, really disappointed that nine of the premises we visited failed and served alcohol to children. To obtain a personal license a seller must pass a recognised qualification and part of that training covers the sale of alcohol to minors so it concerns me that these premises failed.  

“We plan to run a similar operation within the next few months and if any of those premises which failed on this occasion, fail again they could have their license reviewed or even revoked.  This could clearly have implications on their trade.  

“Licensees need to encourage sensible sales of alcohol and the message I would like to put across is simple - if in doubt ask for identification and, if it is not forthcoming, refuse the sale.” 

Cllr David Snartt Chairman of Charnwood Community Safety Partnership said “the partnership is very keen to support such operations, which help target irresponsible licensees but it’s very disappointing to find that despite all our efforts at education, staff are still selling alcohol to underage people. Underage drinking is a serious issue that affects health and can lead to anti social behaviour.” 

Anyone with any information about premises which sell alcohol to young people can call the police on Leicester (0116) 222 2222 or call Crime Stoppers which is free* and anonymous. 

*Some mobile phone networks may charge for this call.