Trading Standards Press Release

25.08.06

Knives Exercise

Following recent national publicity about violent crime involving young people using knives, Wrexham’s Trading Standards Officers yesterday carried out a test purchasing exercise to check whether shops in Wrexham were refusing sales of knives and bladed instruments to underage persons. 

It is illegal to sell knives and other bladed instruments to persons under the age of 16.  Ten shops in Wrexham were visited using an underage volunteer test purchaser.  Sales were refused in each premises.

Chief Housing and Public Protection Officer Andy Lewis says "I’m very pleased that local shops tested during this exercise adhered to the law.  Trading Standards Officers in Wrexham are putting a great deal of effort into informing and educating retailers on laws relating to a range of age restricted products, including knives, alcohol and cigarettes.  The Council has its own nationally accredited Proof of Age Scheme.  The vast majority of young people over 16 in Wrexham are issued with photograph identity cards.  Each card bears a hologram to prove its authenticity so retailers can confidently ask for proof of identity from anyone they suspect of being underage.  Whilst the outcome of this exercise was very encouraging, the Department will carry on checking sales of knives and other age restricted products".

If you are worried about unsolicited calls or if you would like further advice please contact the Trading Standards Division of Wrexham County Borough Council’s Public Protection Department on 01978 296060.