THE first fixed penalty notice for the illegal sale of alcohol to young people has been issued by Redditch police.

Officers have been working with Worcestershire Trading Standards in a joint initiative to target the issue.

As part of an operation in August, Trading Standards officers called at 13 off licences in the area.

During the visits, young volunteers under 18, who were commissioned by Trading Standards to assist in the initiative, were asked to buy alcohol from each premises.

The youngsters took no identification with them and, if challenged, had to admit their age.

Redditch police licensing officer, Pc Simon Worley, said: "Out of the premises visited, all but one refused to sell alcohol to the young person.

"We're delighted with the result.

"A staff member at one did sell alcohol to our volunteer and has been issued with a fixed penalty notice with a fine of £80.

"Trading Standards is still investigating the matter with regard to the licensee of the premises.

"As well as issuing this notice, officers from north east sector also gave the retailer and employees advice on the sale of alcohol, reminding them of its potency and the negative effects it can have on the lives of young people in particular.

Pc Worley added: "We hope the issue of this fixed penalty notice will send out a clear message to Redditch retailers that the sale of alcohol to under 18s will not be tolerated."

Trading Standards supports Citizen Card, a proof of age identity scheme.

For more details, visit www.citizencard.net or call 01782 741982.