HERTS Trading Standards has been given new powers to issue on the spot fines for under-age drinking. The powers previously only available to police means supermarkets, off-licences and pubs can be issued with fixed penalty notice of £80 for selling alcoho

HERTS Trading Standards has been given new powers to issue on the spot fines for under-age drinking.

The powers previously only available to police means supermarkets, off-licences and pubs can be issued with fixed penalty notice of £80 for selling alcohol to a person aged under 18.

Herts is one of the first counties in the country that has been issued with the powers.

Cllr Keith Emsall, executive member for community safety and culture, said: "This gives us another means of enforcing the legislation around the sale of alcohol and of making a difference in the fight against alcohol- related crime and anti-social behaviour."

Chief Insp Sue Wheatley, of Herts police, said: "This will assist in playing a vital part in the new neighbourhood policing, tackling alcohol disorder, supporting and enforcing the constabulary's strategy on licensing laws."

- The number of alcohol licenses revoked or not renewed in the country last year due to illegal alcohol sale was 354.