A shop in Weston-Super-Mare has been ordered to close for three months after selling illegal tobacco products and vapes to children. Avon and Somerset Police issued the closure order to Weston Supermarket on St James Street following a joint investigation with North Somerset Council’s Trading Standards.
The investigation uncovered that illicit tobacco and vaping products were being sold not only to the public but also directly to minors, raising serious health concerns. Alarmingly, a woman fell ill last month after being given a sample vape from the store, prompting police to take her statement on March 21.
Authorities have arrested a 20-year-old man on suspicion of administering a noxious substance and drug supply offenses. However, police clarified that the closure order is unrelated to a separate ongoing inquiry into another child’s illness in Weston-Super-Mare.
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PC Anna Rees of the Weston-Super-Mare Neighbourhood Policing Team emphasized the persistent nature of the illegal sales: “Weston Supermarket repeatedly sold illicit vapes and tobacco, including to children. The closure order follows extensive evidence gathering and sends a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated due to their safety risks.”
Cllr James Clayton, North Somerset Council Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, praised the collaborative work of Trading Standards and partner agencies in securing the closure. He also highlighted the challenges posed by current legislation in enforcing premises closures and expressed intent to advocate for more efficient measures. He warned commercial landlords to exercise caution in leasing retail spaces, assuring that North Somerset will maintain zero tolerance for illegal trading activities.