HUNDREDS of newsagents could be breaking the law if they have not checked the age of their newspaper boys and girls.

Blackburn with Darwen Council today issued a reminder that by law, children must be 13 years old or above to start any kind of part-time work, including delivering newspapers, working in shops, working in cafes, riding stables or hotels.

They must also have a work permit from the local authority for the specific job they take on.

"Taking a paper round is a very popular way for youngsters to make some extra pocket money and they do a valuable service," said Councillor Mahfooz Hussain.

"Many children look older than they are, so employers might just go ahead and hire them, without actually checking they are legally okay to do so.

"If they then have an accident and are found to be underage or working without a work permit, the business's liability insurance becomes invalid.

"This is a just a gentle, routine reminder to everyone who has young people working for them to be clear on what the law is and what their responsibilities are."

The basic rules are children under 13 cannot be employed - and they don't have to be paid money to be classed as 'employed'. No child can work for more than two hours per day on school days and must not work for more than 12 hours a week during school terms.

Children cannot work before 7am and after 7pm and on Sundays children can only work for a maximum two hours between 7am and 7pm.

During school holidays, young people must have at least two weeks free from work throughout the course of the year.

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council's Education Welfare Service produces free guides for employers, young people and their parents covering all aspects of part-time work while still at school. Copies can be obtained by phoning Roger Hancock in the Education Welfare Team on 01254 585120 who can also help with advice and work permit application forms.