A COUNCIL has seized hundreds of novely cigarette lighters - over fears they could appeal to children.
The cigarette lighters in the shape of animals, dice, beer tankards, car wheels, cats paws and bullets were seized by Gateshead Council trading standards officers from two shops in Blaydon and Felling.
The council is now preparing to issue a prohibition notice on the wholesaler who supplied the devices to prevent further sales.
The lighters have been seized because they contravene British and European product safety regulations, which stipulate that no cigarette lighter shall be made in such a way that they would be appear to be toys or novelties, or could appeal to children.
The regulations were introduced to prevent accidents involving children playing with cigarette lighters.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article