TOBACCO retailers have been rewarded for signing up to a good practice scheme.
Nineteen retailers in the Sunderland area have joined the scheme run by the city council and the NHS Teaching Primary Care Trust.
The scheme was launched last year and aims to raise awareness of underage sales of tobacco and reward retailers who take the matter seriously.
It also aims to reduce illegal sales to the under-16s, help retailers deal with difficult situations and assist with training.
Retailers who signed up to the scheme were presented with awards by Sunderland Mayor Councillor Peter Gibson, at Sunderland Civic Centre yesterday.
Scanners making it easier to check proof of age cards were also launched at the ceremony.
Among those who have signed up to the scheme are Balaggam Off Licence, in Fence Houses, BP Foxcover, in East Herrington, Martins Newsagent, in Houghton-le-Spring, and Mill Hill Newsagent, in Washington.
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