One in three shops found to sell knives to teens

A variety of knives were bought from shops in Lancashire, ranging from Stanley knives to kitchen knives

More than one in three shops in a county illegally sold knives to teenagers in undercover tests.

Volunteers, aged between 13 and 16, tried to buy knives and bladed articles in shops across Lancashire.

It was part of a trading standards and Lancashire Police operation last month.

Twenty four shops out of 59 tested sold knives to one of the youngsters with four premises having done so twice this year and are now facing further enforcement action.

Knives are an age-restricted product and businesses and staff could face up to six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine if they sell one to anyone under 18.

A variety of knives were bought, ranging from Stanley knives to kitchen knives, at a range of shops, including hardware and corner shops, in the tests which took place between 9 and 16 November, Lancashire Police said.

Sgt Rachel Killinger, of the Lancashire Violence Reduction Network, said: "Knives are dangerous and the sale of them to children is not only illegal but puts them at risk, too."

She said it was "really important" to make sure knives are not getting into the hands of children.

All of the shops visited were reminded of their responsibility when it comes to refusing sales of knives and bladed articles to under 18s, she added.

Anyone who has information about shops selling knives to children are urged to contact the force.

County Councillor Michael Green, Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for health and wellbeing, thanked the young volunteers who took part and helped to keep residents safer and "reduce the potential of knife crime".

He added: "It was particularly disappointing to see four of the shops sell a knife to the volunteers for a second time, after previously receiving a written warning and advice and guidance from trading standards."