Shops in Cardenden pay the penalty for selling cigarettes to youngsters

Fixed penalty notices have been issued to shopkeepers in Cardenden after a crackdown on underage cigarette sales.

Community police officers and trading standards staff targeted premises where it was thought tobacco products were being sold to young people.

Fife Council’s underage sales officers visited a number of shops and three sold them cigarettes without staff challenging their age or asking for ID.

Three fixed penalties were given to shop owners for not providing adequate training on age-related sales to staff.

PC John McDiarmid said: “I am very pleased the majority of the retailers in our community are complying with legislation in relation to the sale of tobacco.

“I’m confident that the premises who failed will learn from this initiative.”

He said the sale of tobacco and alcohol to minors damaged children’s health and directly affected crime and anti-social behaviour. “Police Scotland is pleased to be working with partner agencies to help ensure our communities are kept safe,” he added.

Anyone concerned about a business selling age-restricted products to someone underage can inform trading standards by calling 01592 583141.