NEARLY 70 per cent of stores sold alcohol to underage children during an undercover operation staged by Southampton police and trading standards officials.

Out of 19 licensed premises targeted during the half term campaign, staff at 14 were happy to hand over alco-pops, lager and other booze without asking for any form of ID.

The figure means 68 per cent of off licences and convenience stores tested across Southampton illegally sold alcohol to teenagers.

Five youngsters aged between 14 and 16 were used to make the test purchases at stores last week.

The shocking results were revealed today following a joint initiative to tackle teenage alcohol sales and its potential links with anti-social behaviour.

Trading standards officers have visited stores across Southampton to stress the importance of checking ID and only selling alcohol to those who are over 18.

Now officials are warning enforcement action is

likely to be taken against shops that made the illegal sales, with investigations continuing.

David Sargeant, Southampton's Trading Standards manager, said: "These figures reflect the concerns we hear from local police and communities about the behaviour of young people at weekends.

"Across the city, there are areas where young people gather on weekend evenings and drink. This can often lead to antisocial behaviour, vandalism and a generally unpleasant environment for local residents.

"We want to educate young people, the licensed trade and local people about the dangers of under-age drinking. These neighbourhoods want a break from the fear and intimidation that accompanies such activities."

Sgt Stewart Chandler, of Southampton police's licensing department, admitted the results of last week's operation were "very disappointing".

He said: "Clearly it is difficult to establish young people's ages today but shop staff should be challenging them in all cases. Young people expect to be asked how old they are if they are borderline and will carry ID accordingly."

Traders risk fines of up to £1,000 and the possible withdrawal of their licence if convicted of selling alcohol to minors. Last week's undercover operation came shortly after police in Chandler's Ford mounted a high-visibility clampdown against teenage anti-social behaviour and drunkenness.

Parents of 30 youngsters were contacted and a substantial amount of alcohol was seized from under-age drinkers.