Twelve takeaways and off-licences have been visited by police as part of a crackdown on below-age alcohol sales.
AdvertisementPolice sent in a 16-year-old to try and buy alcohol at a range of licensed premises.
Lancashire Police said all the premises refused to sell alcohol to the teenager.
Police and Lancashire Fire Services officials also visited twelved takeaways to check on their fire safety – following two blazes at takeaways on New Hall Lane in less than a month.
Three premises are being revisited and one of the takeaways has been referred to other agencies for further visits.
PC Julie Stewart from the Licensing Department said: “Four years ago, 20 per cent of premises failed a similar test purchasing operation. I am pleased to see that the premises visited on this occasion were aware of their responsibilities and took action not to serve alcohol.
“We will continue to carry on with our enforcement of legislation over the coming months and will take robust action against those who pay scant regard to their responsibilities when it comes to the sale of alcohol.”
Richard Edney, spokesman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service through the Combined Fire Authority has a statutory duty to enforce fire safety legislation and to reduce the risk of fire causing death, serious injury and property related losses in the community.
“The public has a right to expect that anywhere they visit provides the requisite level of safety our Technical Fire Safety teams will work with business owners to ensure that the relevant standards are met. However, where unnecessary risks are being taken or management responsibilities flouted, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action.
“Any business owner seeking assistance in understanding the requirements of the law can contact our technical fire safety department on 01772 862545.”
The action came as part of Operation Cleanslate, which involves the police working with other agencies to tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour through both education and enforcement.