Bournemouth Shop Banned From Selling Alcohol

Bournemouth newsagent, Grooms has had its licence to sell alcohol revoked after selling alcohol to a 13 year-old girl on a Trading Standards test-purchase exercise..

The council’s Licensing Board heard that a member of shop staff had sold the girl a bottle of Bacardi Breezer in June, and had not queried the girl’s age or asked for ID. The sale was witnessed by a Trading Standards officer and the matter was brought before the Board for them to review the licence.

The Board also heard evidence from Dorset Police who had witnessed a further sale to a child at the same shop and staff supplying alcohol to people already under the influence of drink.

Councillor David Smith, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Planning, said:

“We will always look to take action where traders fail our tests or show a disregard for the responsibility that comes with holding a licence. Sales to children and those under the influence contribute to anti-social behaviour and public nuisance and we won’t allow it to continue. Our test purchasing will be ongoing and we will not hesitate to review any other licence if we need to.”

George Gill, Senior Technical Officer added:

“The owner and Licensee, Mr Ratnakumar had been advised on numerous occasions, and our officers had helped with staff training so it was a disappointment to find that sales continued with no proper checks and controls.”