UNDERCOVER teenage decoys were sold alcohol in more than a quarter of shops visited during a borough-wide sting.

Lewisham Council trading standards conducted the operation during half-term holiday, under new powers allowing children to make test purchases.

The volunteers aged 14 and 15, who visited 11 shops, including off licences and supermarkets, were sold alcopops at three of them. The youngsters were closely watched by trading standards officers during the operation and Lewisham Council is now considering what action to take, which can either be a warning or fine of up to £1,000.

Deputy mayor Councillor Gavin Moore said: "Rogue traders have been warned. We will not allow shops in the borough to profit from selling alcohol to children. We are prepared to go undercover to catch you and we will prosecute you.

"If in any doubt, retailers should ask for proof of age and if still unsure they should refuse the sale."

Shops interested in proof-of-age stickers and further information relating to age-restricted goods, should call 020 8314 7759 or send and email to the following address tradingstandards@lewisham.gov.uk