SHOPKEEPERS have received a pat on the back - for not breaking the law.
Nine traders were put to the test when Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council sent an 11-year-old into premises in east Cleveland to make a test purchase of cigarettes. No one would sell him any.
Under the supervision of council officers, the youngster went into newsagents, garages and general stores in Redcar, Guisborough, and Skelton.
Howard Turton, the council's principal trading standards officer said: "I am pleased to say that traders either asked for proof of age, or refused to sell outright, and I must commend them for their vigilance."
The council wants to recruit volunteers aged 11 to 14 to test cigarette sales, and 14 to 16-year-olds to test fireworks and solvent sales.
Parents are encouraged to ring Mr Turton for an informal chat on (01642) 444801.
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