Two more shops in Stoke-on-Trent have been forced to close after a Trading Standards operation uncovered the sale of illegal cigarettes and vapes.

Mini Market on Market Street in Longton and Market Mini Market on Market Place in Burslem were both originally issued with a 48-hour closure notice from Stoke-on-Trent City Council after they sold vapes to an underage volunteer.

But now Newcastle Magistrates Court backed up the council's actions by making a closure order for each of the premises for three months.

The investigation was part of a co-ordinated operation to target illegal cigarettes and vapes being sold in the city and the council says it will now work with the landlords of the affected premises to ensure that only legitimate businesses operate from the premises in the future. 

Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability for Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: "This is another great result by our Trading Standards team.

"These operations protect residents, support legitimate businesses, and uphold the law.

"We want Stoke-on-Trent to be a safe, thriving place and we won't hesitate to take action against those who undermine the hard work of residents and legitimate businesses.

"I encourage any residents to report any suspicious activity related to illegal tobacco, vapes, or underage sales."

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