YOUNGSTERS will go undercover as part of a council crackdown to ensure retailers are abiding by the law on selling cigarettes to under 16s.

Lancashire County Council's trading standard department is carrying out the latest round of test purchase visits.

Volunteer children take part in more than 100 checks each year in the county, following strict Home Office guidelines.

County Councillor Chris Cheetham, chairman of the Lancashire County Council's finance and general purposes sub committee, said: "Smoking causes over 100,000 deaths every year and heart problems in later life.

"Unfortunately, under 16s who develop smoking habits are likely to become tomorrow's death statistics and in Lancashire we support a firm enforcement police in respect of illegal sales to children.

"Lancashire retailers show a high level of compliance and we want to maintain these standards.

"If in doubt, traders should ask the age of the purchaser, and for proof of age. If they are not satisfied they should simply refuse to sell.

"Anyone caught selling cigarettes to children will face prosecution and a fine of up to £2,500."

Blackburn with Darwen Council's trading standards department carries out similar operations.

Chief trading standards officer Chris Allen said: "We are enforcing the law constantly by following up complaints and making visits to retailers."

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