Parents and Carers are being urged to report any shops they believe are illegally selling nicotine e-cigarettes or vapes.

Warwickshire Trading Standards are receiving increasing numbers of complaints about the illegal sale of vapes to young people under the age of 18. Children – some as young as 12 – are reported to be buying these products from small shops and corner stores, often located close to schools.

Whilst e-cigarettes are recognised as an important tool in reducing smoking rates, nicotine vapes are an age restricted product and scientists are still learning about the long-term health effects of them.

The most popular type of product amongst young people is the disposable vape which looks like a highlighter pen and comes in a variety of bright colours. Costing around £5 each they can be hidden easily in pencil cases.

Parents and Carers can report shops anonymously using a dedicated Warwickshire County Council online reporting tool, visit: https://forms.office.com/r/TzNzW8GH31. All information received will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Trading Standards Officers have also been contacting local businesses to make them aware of the law and their responsibilities.