The latest testing of shops for their willingness to illegally sell cigarettes, e-cigarettes and alcohol to children has produced some disappointing results, say Cornwall trading standards officers.

They completed a test purchase operation in Launceston, targeting illegal sales of tobacco and alcohol to children. Three of the seven businesses visited failed the test and sold tobacco or alcohol to a 17-year-old volunteer.

Senior trading standards officer Elizabeth Kirk said: ’Some of the shops visited were excellent, ensuring that they asked our volunteer for a proof of age. However, we were disappointed that this did not happen in every case.’

The test purchase operation forms part of a week of tobacco control activities from Trading Standards and Public Health.

Running from October 3 to 8, the Tobacco Control week also coincides with Stoptober, the national NHS campaign to help smokers kick the habit.

Keep up to date with the week’s activities on the Cornwall Trading Standards Twitter Account @TSCornwall.