The under-18s are still able to buy alcohol and tobacco in two out of five attempts, according to research by the food retailers’ association CBL.

However, the situation is improving and supermarkets are become more aware, the CBL said. The organisation sent young mystery shoppers to supermarkets and 38% were able to buy alcohol or cigarettes. In 2013, the figure was 46%.

The age limit for buying alcohol and cigarettes was raised to 18 at the beginning of 2014 and everyone under 25 must be able to show identification at the check-out.