POLICE in Omagh say they will be carrying out checks to ensure that young people under the age of 18 are not served alcohol in local licensed premises.

The warning comes after claims were made to police that under18s were being served in some premises.

Commented Inspector Billy William, "The law is clear that whilst in licensed premises it is an offence for people under the age of 18 to consume alcohol, buy alcohol or for anyone over 18 years of age to purchase or supply alcohol for someone under the age of 18.

"We fully appreciate that it can sometimes be difficult for bar staff to recognise that someone is too young, but there is an onus on them and they should always ask for proof of age if there is any doubt.

"If someone does see an offence taking place, we would ask them to contact us and make a statement so we can take the matter further."

He added, "We have also received complaints about the behaviour of children in licensed premises. If the appropriate child certificate is in place, children may be in premises under the supervision of their parents, or other appropriate adult, until 9pm. The parents, or appropriate adult, have a responsibility to ensure that children in their company do not cause a nuisance to