A MALVERN shopkeeper has been fined after admitting selling alcohol to an under-age person.

Rasik Bhai Patel, of Eversley Stores, sold alcohol to a 15-year-old volunteer in a test purchase held by Worcestershire Trading Standards.

Patel sold four cans of lager to the volunteer and failed to challenge him about his age or ask for ID.

He pleaded guilty by post, was fined £300 and ordered to pay full costs of £330.03. The maximum fine is £1,000.

Trading Standards officer Emma Wheate said: "We consider the sale of alcohol to young people to be a very serious matter and will not hesitate to take legal action if shopkeepers flout the law. We will happily work with traders to advise them of their responsibilities, steps they can take to comply with the law and to encourage use of proof of age cards."

Anyone concerned about shops selling restricted products to underage consumers can call 08454 040506.