Police target proxy alcohol sales

Police in South Cumbria are targeting adults who buy alcohol for under-18s in a new campaign.

Adults found guilty of committing a proxy sale can receive an on the spot fine of £80 and be fined up to £5,000 in the most serious cases.

Plain clothes officers will be monitoring activity around off-licences in the coming months, particularly in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire Night.

"Tackling proxy sales is essential if we are to stop alcohol getting into the hands of children," said PC John Brooks.

"Those who buy alcohol on behalf of under-18s need to know that they are committing a serious offence that has consequences for the entire community.

"There is a clear link between alcohol consumption and anti-social behaviour, and if we want to reduce intimidating and violent behaviour in our communities, we must tackle the root cause of the problem, and prevent under-18s getting access to alcohol.

"Parents need to understand that their children are more likely to get in trouble with the police after they have been drinking, and are significantly more at risk of getting injured or hurt."