News

The licence holder of Cheriton Food and Wine Store in Cheriton High Street, Folkestone, has been fined for selling alcohol to an underage customer.

39-year-old Kanapathipilla Sritharan appeared before Folkestone Magistrates Court on Monday 16 June where he pleaded guilty to selling four bottles of Babycham to a person aged under 18 on 24 October 2007.

He was fined £300 with £363 costs.

It follows a joint operation between Kent Police and Kent Trading Standards where test purchases are made using underage actors.

The aim of these operations is to ensure that the law relating to the sale and consumption of alcohol is being upheld.

Chief Inspector Luke Dodson said: "This sends out a strong message to the minority of irresponsible licensees who sell alcohol to children, that we will target you and take action against you."

"As well as posing a serious health risk to children, there is a clear link between underage drinking and anti-social behaviour and criminal damage, and residents tell us this is a major cause for concern." He added.

KCC Area Manager for Kent Trading Standards Mark Rolfe said: "We rely on reports from the public about suspected underage sales in a bid to tackle this problem which can have a real effect on the local community. Licence holders have a legal duty to do all they can to prevent under 18s buying alcohol from their premises and we will act where necessary"