A convenience store in New Romney, Kent, has had its alcohol licence revoked after selling vodka to children, who later became ill as a result.
Kent Police launched an investigation following reports of a medical incident involving a child. Its enquiries established that on Saturday, 31 May 2025, two 15-year-old girls purchased bottles of vodka from Littlestone Stores in Littlestone Road, New Romney.
CCTV footage subsequently confirmed the girls were not asked to provide proof of age before the sale, and staff bypassed prompts on the till system designed to verify age restrictions. One of the girls later became seriously unwell after drinking the vodka and required medical treatment.
Further reports were also received that the store had previously sold other alcohol products as well as vapes to schoolchildren.
PC Alistair Pringle, from Kent Police, said: “This was a clear and reckless breach of the law, which placed children at significant risk. The sale of alcohol to underage customers won’t be tolerated, and we’ll continue to work with our partners to ensure businesses uphold their responsibilities to protect young people.”
Licensing officers applied for a review of the shop’s alcohol licence and following a licensing hearing at Folkestone and Hythe District Council last week (19 August), the store’s licence was revoked.
Kent Police worked hand in hand with Trading Standards, Folkestone & Hythe district Council, and New Romney Town Council. A Folkestone & Hythe District Council spokesperson said: “The licensing authority is committed to promoting the highest standards of management at licensed premises and expects the Premises Licence Holder to operate in full accordance with their operating schedule and the law.”
“Considering the repeated concerns and compliance issues identified at Littlestone Store, it demonstrates how effective partnership working leads to positive outcomes for protecting children against harm.”
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