The initiative aims to crack down on under-age drinking

Central Scotland Police said 16 youngsters were given training at Tulliallan to enable them to act as under-age test alcohol purchasers.

The teenagers will operate across the Forth Valley with community officers.

The force hopes the move will encourage local shopkeepers to challenge young people to provide proof of age.

So far the operation, which began a week ago, has targeted five off-licences in Falkirk, two in Stirling and two in Clackmannanshire.

Police said in each case the youngsters were asked for identification.

Pete Cheema, president of the Scottish Grocers' Federation, said: "Responsible retailers will have no problem and no issue with test purchasing being carried out.

"This is something that has been brought in to tackle irresponsible retailers and it will be interesting to see the outcome."