Pubs sell alcohol to 16-year-old in Horsham district

A series of test purchases were carries out on Friday, May 23.

The aim of the operation, carried out by the Neighbourhood Licensing Team was to identify licensed premises selling alcoholic drinks to children under 18-years-old and to take appropriate action.

During the operation eight premises were tested, resulting in four of the premises selling alcohol to a 16-year-old plain clothed police cadet.

The premises who sold are Limeburners in Billingshurst, The Queens Head in West Chiltington and The White Horse Hotel in Storington.

Sergeant Tony Jarred said: “The sale of alcohol to children is totally unacceptable. Any person caught selling alcohol to a child under 18 will be given a £90 fine, or may face prosecution.

“Young people becoming intoxicated is not only a health risk, but also leads to crime and anti-social behaviour which can have a big impact on local communities.

“Sussex Police takes this type of incident very seriously and will look to take robust action against any licensed premises who are putting young people at risk of harm.”