OFF-LICENCES have been targeted as part of a crackdown on under-age drinking.

Trading watchdogs have identified potential hot-spots and have mapped out a detailed plan to advise off-licence staff to prevent children purchasing alcohol.

Wigan Council's trading standards team will bring in undercover teenagers who will attempt to buy alcohol at off-licences in target areas.

The move comes after the results of a recent survey and test-purchase exercise showed 10 out of 22 off-licences sold alcohol to children.

Chief Trading Standards Officer Alan Blundell said: "We know the vast majority of off licences and their staff are responsible people who do not want to sell alcohol to children. It can be a difficult job. We will show people how to avoid this situation and offer any advice they need."

Cabinet member for community safety Cllr Keith Cunliffe welcomed the initiative: "We are not prepared to stand by and let a small minority of people flout the law and sell alcohol to children. Given the problems the cocktail of young people and alcohol can cause in our communities, it is time we said enough is enough.

"We know the vast majority of alcohol retailers will welcome this action because they play by the rules but for those who don't -- you have been warned."

Selling alcohol to under 18 year-olds can result in prosecution for the shopkeeper and a maximum fine of up to £1,000 and loss of licence.