An undercover operation between Greenwich Council and the Met Police has tested local retailers over their policies on selling cigarettes to children.

The weekend ended well with all shopkeepers refusing to sell to the minors.

Trading standards officers and the police carried out a spot check, also referred to as a test purchase, on eight shops which resulted in no sales of any age-restricted goods.

One shopkeeper was overheard telling the minor to “wait four years and come back” after turning down the request for cigarettes.

Cllr Jackie Smith said: “Well done to all of the responsible shopkeepers who are following the law, protecting young consumers in the borough is a top priority for us and we’re pleased our trading standards operation with the Met Police ended positively on this occasion.

“The council will continue to work with the police, local businesses and other partners to ensure the borough is full of responsible retailers.”

It is illegal to sell certain products to anyone under the age of 18 including knives, alcohol, fireworks and tobacco.

Greenwich Council carries out regular spot checks to ensure retailers aren’t breaking the law, and a failed test purchase exercise may result in a criminal prosecution.

If you are concerned about or suspect a business in the borough may be carrying out illegal activity, contact the trading standards team at tradingstandards@royalgreenwich.gov.uk. Local businesses can also contact the team for guidance and advice.