The two-week operation will see test purchases made in pubs and off- licences.

Police say the aim of the operation is to identity premises that "blatantly sell" alcohol to children.

A spokesman for Cumbria Police said the force was determined to expose the minority of licensed premises that were breaking the law.

Insp Mike Forrester of Cumbria Police, said: "This tactic has proved very successful with regard to off-licences.

"Our research indicates that people under 18 are being allowed entry and are being served alcohol in some licensed premises in the area.

"As a consequence they are getting extremely drunk and are becoming a danger to themselves and others, positive action is necessary to tackle this issue."