One year on - Middleton scheme praised

Joanne Donohue, Senior Branch Manager of Simply Drinks, joins 27 local retailers backing the council’s responsible retailers scheme.

A scheme to stop age restricted products being sold to young people in Middleton is being hailed a success a year after its launch.

Retailers in the town are being praised for their part in the Responsible Retailer scheme which recognises traders who are vigilant in preventing the sale of alcohol, tobacco and other age restricted products to underage youngsters.

So far, 27 retailers have signed up and Rochdale Council and the police are working jointly to implement the scheme.

To be eligible to join, businesses must show that staff are adequately trained in the prevention of underage sales and that they adopt the ‘Challenge 21’ policy and promote the ‘Validate’ proof of age card. Members receive advisory visits from Trading Standards and test purchase exercises are also carried out.

Those involved range from one-person businesses to national chains. Each gets a certificate of membership and a poster to display in their shop.

Cabinet member for Community Safety, Councillor Ted Flynn said: “I am delighted with the enthusiasm that traders in Middleton have shown for this scheme. By getting involved they are helping to prevent alcohol and cigarettes getting into the hands of young people. This has an immediate effect in reducing anti social behaviour in the town and also a long term benefit by improving health.”

The success of the scheme has meant that it is being considered for use in other hot-spot areas of Rochdale.

To report suspected underage sales, contact 08454 040506.