TRADING standards officers in Poole are backing a national campaign to highlight the issue of illegal tobacco.

The ‘No ifs, no butts – Report Illegal Tobacco’ initiative aims to tell people about the real harm caused by illegal tobacco and how residents can help to prevent its supply.

Jane Burrows, Borough of Poole's environmental services regulatory team manager, said: "We know illegal tobacco is sold locally at pocket money prices.

"If you are buying illegal tobacco or cigarettes, you may think you are buying from someone who brings a few in from abroad duty free, but can you be sure? Officers across the area have found that counterfeit tobacco and cigarettes on sale.

“We want to hear from you if you have any information about the sale of illegal tobacco. This information can be passed on anonymously by either contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.”

Research from other parts of England show that more than half of 14 and 15-year-olds who smoke buy illegal tobacco, and nearly three quarters of them said they had been offered illegal tobacco.

Cllr John Rampton, cabinet portfolio holder for environmental services, said: “Illegal tobacco is not only extremely dangerous, but it makes smoking accessible to our children.

"If you would like any information about the sale of illegal tobacco or have concerns about being sold illegal tobacco, I encourage you to go and speak to the team.”