TWO businesses in Haverfordwest served alcohol to underage teenagers without asking for ID, according to police who carried out a covert operation.

A Dyfed-Powys Police day of action was held in Haverfordwest on Saturday, June 16, which included tackling under-age drinking.

Officers teamed up with Wales Ambulance Service and Street Pastors to carry out a targeted day of activity clamping down on problems that have been reported to them by the community.

A test purchase operation targeted three licenced premises in the town.

Two out of the three allowed the 16 and 17 year old test purchasers into the premises and served them alcohol with no questions asked around identification.

The third business asked for identification, but when none was provided they were refused entry.

All three businesses were given immediate feedback and police will continue to work with them.

Sergeant Reuben Palin said: “We will continue to support these businesses with educating their staff on the importance of challenging those that seek to purchase alcohol whilst under the legal age.

“One of the licensed premises in Haverfordwest used to have a policy which allowed anyone over 16 to enter.

“After the Test Purchase Operation they have now removed this policy and entry is for over 18’s.

“Most young people are well behaved but what concerns us is the number of calls we get about a minority who engage in underage drinking and the effects this has on them and their behaviour.”

He added: “Alcohol is a major cause of anti-social behaviour and underage drinking can be dangerous to young people.

“Young people who engage in ASB are likely to receive a criminal record that could affect them for their whole life.”

If you are a victim of, or witness ASB you should contact Dyfed-Powys Police on 101; or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In an emergency contact Police on 999.