A HYDE town centre shop has been forced to close down after repeatedly selling illegal tobacco.
H Local Store on Market Street had been found to be selling illicit cigarettes, hand-rolling tobacco and e-cigarettes on numerous occasions.
Tameside Council says its Trading Standards team has seized 26,860 illegal cigarettes, 7.45kg of illegal hand-rolling tobacco and 284 illegal e-cigarettes from the shop since 2020.
The council applied for a closure order which was granted last week by Stockport Magistrates’ Court.
It means the shop must remain closed for the next three months.
Evidence was presented by Trading Standards and Greater Manchester Police, who told the court the illegal activity was likely to continue unless the business shut.
“This is a great result from court and will prevent this business from continuing to break the law and having a negative impact on the local community,” said Councillor Laura Boyle, Executive Member for Environment Services and Neighbourhoods.
“Trade in illicit tobacco supports crime rings, damages legitimate businesses, undermines public health and facilitates the supply of tobacco to young people.
“Public protection is a priority for us and our officers will always take enforcement action, where necessary, to help keep our local communities safe, as well as to support local businesses that comply with the law.”