 The kit can detect even the smallest trace of alcohol |
Police in Greater Manchester are using a special testing kit to make sure children are not disguising alcohol in soft drink cans or bottles. The force is one of three in the UK to use the tests, which detect even the smallest trace of alcohol.
They are being used for the first time in the county by officers in Bury.
Youngsters in Ramsbottom will be among those targeted. Pub drinks can also be tested to make sure those who are under age are not being sold alcohol.
Adult drinkers who are in an "alcohol consumption restricted zone" may also be stopped by police.
'No arguments'
A small quantity of the liquid to be tested is poured into the disposable drink container and a simple dip test gives the result. If the card turns blue, the liquid contains alcohol.
A colour chart on the back of the strip helps users assess the alcoholic strength of the fluid.
Pc Helen Tildesley, licensing officer for Bury police, said: "This new testing kit promises to be a real help in our fight to stop illegal drinking and the anti-social behaviour that can be the result of it.
"Now there is no need to get into arguments with illegal drinkers over whether there is alcohol in the soft drinks can or bottle that they are drinking from."
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