County Durham shops found selling illegal vapes
The owner of three stores has held onto his licence despite being found selling illegal electronic cigarettes and a vape to a child.
Sivaguru Ravichandran appeared before a Durham County Council licensing hearing, as members considered whether to revoke the licenses of the Local Store in Crook, Premier in Bishop Auckland and Your Local Store in Tow Law.
A test purchase exercise using a 15-year-old child was carried out at the Crook store in March by the local authority and the child was sold a Blue Razz 600 puff Elf Bar.
Enforcement officers inspected the Bishop Auckland store in November 2022 and July 2023 and seized non-compliant electronic cigarettes, as they exceeded the 2ml limit for tank size.
Disposable electronic cigarettes that exceeded the maximum tank capacity and breached labelling requirements were also found at the Tow Law store in February 2023.
The hearing also heard how nearby residents of the Premier store in Bishop Auckland had complained of a rise in anti-social behaviour and threats to public safety. Neighbours said groups of teenagers often gather outside the store and cause a nuisance, with some spotted urinating and throwing litter.
“The sale of alcohol, vapes and cigarettes to underage persons has caused the problems with the anti-social behaviour and increased crime rates at this particular location,” one resident said.
Another added: “Groups of youths frequently gather outside of the shop to seemingly shout at each other on a nightly basis, right up until shutters roll down at 10pm.”
Yet, members were told Mr Ravichandran had worked with local authorities to improve since the inspections and carried out staff training. He has also appointed new Designated Premises Supervisors for the stores.
The store owner was also praised for his community work throughout the coronavirus pandemic, as he handed out food parcels and delivered supplies free of charge.
Representing Mr Ravichandran, Duncan Craig said: “You’ve got a licence holder who has accepted responsibility, has taken positive steps, has worked with trading standards and other authorities to provide improving conditions.”
The licensing committee ruled to modify Mr Ravichandran’s licence to ensure he followed the rules set out by the licensing authority.