AN initiative to crack down on under-age drinking caught youngsters with illegally- bought alcohol hours after it was launched.

The bottle watch' scheme, which is being trialled at three off- licences in Darwen, was launched last month.

And after officers tagged the bottles of alcohol they later seized vodka and a two-litre bottle of cider.

Officers are considering what action to take against those involved in supplying the illegal alcohol.

Chris Allen, head of environmental health and trading standards at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "The aim is to find out where alcohol is coming from so we and the police can take action.

"We aim to catch teenagers who are buying it illegally, anyone selling it to them and any adult buying alcohol for under-age drinkers."

Anyone selling alcohol to under-age drinkers or buying it on their behalf can face an £80 fixed penalty notice or a court fine of up to £5,000.

Sgt Jonathan Cisco, from Darwen's shared neighbourhood team, said: "We recognise that young people who are under the influence of alcohol are more vulnerable and likely to commit offences."

Anyone with information about illegal sales or supply of alcohol to under-age drinkers can contact the council's confidential Call Time hotline on 0845 606 6607.