A shop worker in Hartlepool has been convicted following a successful prosecution by Hartlepool Borough Council after being caught selling cigarettes to underage individuals.
The incident occurred during a test purchase operation in December 2024 carried out by Hartlepool Borough Council’s Trading Standards team, where a volunteer under the age of 18 was able to buy 20 cigarettes and cigarette papers. The shop worker initially asked for identification from the volunteer but when they were unable to provide this, the shop work proceeded to continue the sale of cigarettes to them. The operation was part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to protect young people in Hartlepool from the harms of tobacco and ensure compliance with age-restricted sales laws.
The defendant, Yogeswaran Karthigesu, who worked at The Headland Local Shop on Northgate in the Headland area of the town, appeared at Teesside Magistrates Court on Tuesday 26 August 2025 and pleaded guilty of selling tobacco products to a person under the age of 18, contrary to the Children and Young Persons Act 1933. They were fined £300 reduced to £200 for the guilty plea, ordered to pay £400 towards legal costs, and a surcharge of £80.
Councillor Karen Oliver, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Neighbourhood Services Committee, said:
“This conviction sends a clear message that selling age-restricted products to minors will not be tolerated in Hartlepool. Our Trading Standards team works tirelessly to protect young people and uphold the law. We urge all retailers to take their responsibilities seriously and ensure staff are properly trained.”
The Council continues to work with local businesses to provide guidance and support on preventing underage sales, including advice on implementing robust ID-checking procedures.
Retailers found to be in breach of the law may face prosecution and fines.
For more information or to report concerns about underage sales, contact Hartlepool Trading Standards via (01429) 523362 or trading.standards@hartlepool.gov.uk.