THREE shops are under investigation for selling fireworks and alcohol to underage shoppers.

It comes as part of a ‘test purchase’ operation to tackle anti-social behaviour.

This week, 25 stores throughout Calderdale were tested as part of the initiative, which saw police cadets attempt to buy alcohol or fireworks despite being under the legal age.

Three shops failed - two stores in Halifax Central sold fireworks and one store in the Lower Valley sold alcohol. 

These shops are now under investigation by the Calderdale Community Safety Partnership which includes local Police, Fire service, Council and licencing officers.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Some of the fireworks purchasedSome of the fireworks purchased (Image: West Yorkshire Police)

Officers from Calderdale Neighbourhood Policing Teams were joined by a licencing officer, three PCSO’s and two cadets to carry out the operation. 

Sergeant Anna Law, of Calderdale Valley Neighbourhood Policing Team, who led the operation, said: “This operation allowed us to identify shops and retailers who we need to work more closely with, to ensure there are no recurrences, and to highlight their responsibility to help prevent anti-social behaviour. 

“Offences of this nature can lead to prosecution and the sale of fireworks and alcohol to those under the legal age is unacceptable. 

“This time of year, many people will enjoy fireworks safety, however a small minority use fireworks to cause crime and anti-social behaviour in our local community.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: More fireworks that were bought as part of the operationMore fireworks that were bought as part of the operation (Image: West Yorkshire Police)

“Retailers must be held accountable for types of sales and understand the impact that can be caused by anti-social behaviour.  

“Minimising the risk of the sale of fireworks and alcohol to young people will contribute to our ongoing efforts to help make our communities safer.

“Our local neighbourhood policing team takes this very seriously and will continue with our proactive approach, whilst liaising with partners, to stop any unlawful practice and to prevent any breaches to the licencing regulations.   

“This weekend, we are working alongside our partners, to target any and all anti-social behaviour in the area and will be robust in our response.”