A Spalding off-licence which was caught selling counterfeit alcohol and illicit cigarettes has withdrawn an appeal against a decision to revoke its premises licence.
Europe Store, in Holbeach Road, had its licence revoked by South Holland District Council’s licensing committee in August.
The decision was made after police and Trading Standards officers discovered 79 bottles of smuggled whisky and vodka and 1,420 illicit cigarettes.
The store’s licence holder Alan Ahmad initially appealed the ruling but has now withdrawn it. As a result, Mr Ahmad will pay the council’s costs in the matter, meaning district taxpayers won’t be hit in the pocket.
Coun Angela Harrison, chair of the licensing committee, said: “This reinforces our message to traders as part of our new Stamp it Out campaign to crack down on illegal alcohol. For any traders breaking the law we will find you and deal with you. Don’t run the risk of losing your licence and going out of business.”
As part of the council’s Stamp it Out campaign, officers from the licensing team are visiting licensed premises in the run-up to Christmas. Since the start of the operation, the majority of premises inspected have been operating responsibly.
Anyone who spots smuggled alcohol or cigarettes on sale, or inappropriate licensing conditions in South Holland can contact the licensing team on 01775 761161.
