Police say graffiti increases the fear of crime

North Tyneside Trading Standards officers used child volunteers in the wake of new laws banning sales to youngsters under 16.

Some 15 outlets were tested, with a third flouting the new legislation.

The action follows a pledge from North Tyneside Council to tackle the borough's growing graffiti problem.

Legislation brought in under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 outlawed the selling of aerosol paint containers to under-16s.

Advice offered

The law came into effect in March 2003 and fines of �2,500 are available to the courts for anyone convicted.

North Tyneside Council's tackling graffiti officer, Natalie Connor said: "Retailers need to work with Trading Standards to help us fight graffiti.

"If aerosols are sold to under-16s, it may well impact on the amount of graffiti on our streets.

"Retailers have to understand that their co-operation is not only required by law, but very much needed.

"We believe that most traders will co-operate and it may be that they are not aware of the legislation so we are putting posters out to retailers and following this up with advice.

"If further action is needed, it will be taken."