THREE stores in Flintshire sold blades to underage customers during a knife crime operation, it has been revealed.

Flintshire Council's trading standards department took part in Operation Sceptre during a National week of action against knife crime.

The operation involved working in partnership with North Wales Police and 16-year-old police cadets who were sent into stores across the county in an attempt to test purchase knives.

It is illegal to sell a knife or similar bladed article to a person under eighteen, the penalty for which can lead to a substantial fine or imprisonment.

During the operation, knives were sold to the cadets at three stores.

These stores have since been revisited by trading standards officers and advised of their legal obligations, with a follow-up joint test purchase exercise planned where any further sales will result in formal enforcement action being taken.

Councillor Chris Bithell, Flintshire Council’s cabinet member for planning and public protection, said: “The health, safety and wellbeing of our residents across Flintshire is a priority for the council and the prevention of knife crime and its effects on individuals, families and communities continues to be a priority area of work for the council and its partners.

“Although knife crime in Flintshire is very rare it can have a detrimental effect on our communities.

"It is important that local authorities work alongside the police to give a clear message that non-compliance with the law will not be tolerated.”

Of the 62 premises that were visited across North Wales as part of the operation, 48 of them passed.

Detective Inspector Tecwyn Green of North Wales Police said: “Retailers play a crucial role in ensuring our young people can’t get hold of knives which could then be used to cause harm.

"North Wales Police and all partner agencies are committed in doing everything they can to tackle knife crime.

"If you carry a knife, not only are you putting other lives at risk, but also your own.

"We will continue to work closely with retailers and further test purchasing operations will be carried out in the future to ensure all businesses are operating within the law.”