Off-licence caught selling alcohol to child

Just one of eight Horsham and Crawley pubs and off-licences failed a police operation to see if they would sell drink to underage customers
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Police

A Sussex Police statement says that the operation was carried out on Thursday (November 14) by police licensing officers.

At seven - The White Horse in Storrington, The Queens Head in West Chiltington, The Limeburners in Billingshurst, Costcutter in Park Way, Horsham, Best One in The Broadway, Crawley, and the Wine Express stores in Tilgate Parade and Worth Road, Crawley - the young volunteers were challenged by staff who refused to serve them alcohol.

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The premises that failed was West Sussex Wines in Ifield Drive, Crawley.

Sergeant Michael Balmer said: “It was disappointing that this store failed to meet its licensing responsibilities.

“The neighbourhood licensing team will be working with the management to make sure that all staff are properly trained and to ensure there are no further offences committed in the future.

“The reason we carry out these operations is to reduce drunkenness and antisocial behaviour and to ensure young people are protected from the harmful effects of alcohol abuse.

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“It is imperative that staff reinforce the Challenge 25 campaign to tackle underage purchases. Anybody appearing to be under 25 should be asked to provide suitable identification to confirm they are over 18.

“Further test purchase operations will be undertaken at failing premises and repeat failures can result in prosecution.”

To discuss licensing issues or raise concerns about licensed premises in the Crawley and Horsham areas then please contact a member of the West Sussex Licensing team on 101.

To report the sale of alcohol to children call 101 or email [email protected].