They were sold alcohol at a number of shops in April: one in the Castle Cary area, three in the Shepton Mallet area and four in west Somerset.

Police hope the operation sends a "clear message" to businesses selling alcohol to underage drinkers.

But they praised the vast majority of shops who refused to serve youngsters.

Test purchases

Young people were monitored by police and trading standards officers trying to buy alcohol from premises throughout the county in April.

Trading Standards is now investigating the sales and considering what action to take.

A police spokesman said: "Anti-social behaviour can cause misery to whole communities and we are appealing to shopkeepers to support their customers by being responsible when selling alcohol."