Shopkeepers in Denbighshire have come under fire after a teenager, under the age of 18, was able to buy alcohol from all of the shops that he went into.

As part of a police crackdown on the illegal sale of alcohol, the youth went into seven stores and managed to buy drinks in each one.

Shops in Ruthin and Corwen were targeted

The police operation called Festive Spirit led to the shop licensees being formerly cautioned by officers.

Inspector Steve Williams from Denbigh police station said it was worrying that the teenager was able to buy alcohol so easily.

"It is an offence to sell alcohol to anyone under the age of 18," he said.

"We will be continuing with this operation in a bid to make sure that this message is adhered to at all times," he said.

Bad behaviour

Police targeted the stores in Ruthin and Corwen on Thursday to remind shop workers to remain vigilant over the festive period.

Extra officers have been drafted in to address any anti-social behaviour or under age drinking during the festive season.

Inspector Williams said bad behaviour is not a big problem in the area but it is hoped that preventing under age youngsters from buying alcohol will stop reports of unruly activity.

"Anti-social behaviour....is a cause for concern for some residents," he said.

"We are actively working to address any concerns and owners of licensed premises can be sure that more activity of this kind will be taking place in the very near future," he said.