A large number of illegal items, including vapes and counterfeit alcohol and tobacco, have been seized following licencing spot checks carried out by the Stevenage Safer Neighbourhood Team and Trading Standards officers. 

At around 4pm on Thursday (February 16), officers made an unannounced visit to Daniels store in Popple Way.

As a result officers seized a number of illegal and counterfeit items - including more than 250 prohibited vaping products, as well as imitations of brands such as Absolut Vodka and tobacco products, which are not for sale in the UK.

As part of this investigation a 37 year old man from Stevenage has been arrested and released on police bail, while enquiries continue.  

Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant Matt Fathers said: "The sale of illicit vapes in the UK, in particular to children, is a huge concern.

"Vaping products are an age-restricted product, and it is illegal to sell vapes to under 18s. These products are unregulated and unlicensed so their content is unknown and could pose huge health risks.  

"If you suspect non-compliant vapes are being sold or have concerns regarding the retailer selling to children, please report this to the police or Trading Standards."