Gillett’s Callington, the South West Spar multiple, has come out top in mainland England in a recent audit from Serve Legal.

Gillett’s 63 stores throughout the South West take part in a regular inspection programme by Serve Legal, which tests staff in their responses in identifying attempts to buy alcohol by underage people.

In the latest audit, the company recorded a pass rate of 93%, the best result since it first took part in the examination of its standards.

Phil Darch, operations director of Gillett’s Callington, said: “This is a superb result which validates us as a responsible retailer in the sale of alcohol. Like any retailer, though, we can’t allow any complacency to set in and with the Easter period shortly upon us, it’s important we keep up the focus and maintain our reputation.”

Serve Legal works with convenience stores, supermarkets and other retail outlets on compliance issues. As market leader, it conducts 9,000 visits a month using 1,500 highly trained mystery visitors. Gillett’s was tested on the Challenge 25 scheme, which it has formally adopted.

“Our 93% pass mark on the audit was the best in mainland England, and only one retailer in Scotland was ahead of us,” said Darch.

“We give full focus on alcohol training every three months, with monthly training as well, and we all take a lot of pride in this achievement.”

Gillett’s is owned by South West Spar distributor, Appleby Westward.