Eight Gloucestershire Shops Sell Corrosives to Minors

An undercover operation by Gloucestershire Trading Standards revealed that eight out of ten shops visited sold corrosive substances to underage buyers without checking for identification. The operation took place in February, targeting stores across Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, the Forest of Dean, and Tewkesbury, and included items like caustic soda drain unblocker and brick cleaner. Councillor Dave Norman expressed disappointment at the findings, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, which prohibits such sales to those under 18. The trading standards team plans to contact the offending businesses to provide advice on legal responsibilities, warning that repeat offenders could face prosecution. These products pose significant risks if misused, highlighting the need for strict adherence to age restrictions. Trading standards encourages businesses uncertain of their obligations to seek guidance from their resources.