LETTERS of caution have been sent to every licensee in Somerset stating that if test purchase results do not improve they risk losing their license.

The police-issued words of warning follow a string of disappointing test purchase results carried out alongside Trading Standards on licensed premises over the last few months.

Since April 1 there have been 36 test purchases in pubs and clubs across the county. Disappointingly, 24 of these failed (67%), while out of 38 off-licenses that were checked, 15 (39%) failed the test.

Superintendent Gary Davies said: "These results are alarming and it is very disappointing that these premises sold alcohol to young people clearly under age.

"Sixty-seven per cent of on-license premises failing this very basic test is an unacceptable position and one that we cannot tolerate. We are too aware of the vulnerability of young people and how the misuse of alcohol can manifest itself at one end of the scale in antisocial behaviour or at the other end in rendering young girls to being vulnerable to sexual assault.

"Some licensees have been getting away with this for too long now and it is time they woke up and took notice of how seriously we take this matter.

"With continually disappointing results like these we are going to have to consider revoking the licenses of certain premises."

Councillor Jim Mochnacz, Somerset County Council's portfolio holder for community safety, said: "We would urge bars to take up is the introduction of shatterproof or toughened glass or plastic and the decanting of non-plastic bottles prior to serving. We know that this has had a dramatic effect in reducing the severity of injuries whether caused deliberately or otherwise."

Those licensees requiring more information should visit the force website on www.avonandsomerset.police.uk or call 0845 456 7000 to find out how to contact your local neighbourhood police team.A letter has gone to every licensee in Somerset to warn them of the tougher stance being taken by the police.