POLICE have pledged strong action against off-licences caught selling alcohol to underage drinkers, following a public meeting.

The meeting in Duke Bar, Burnley, was called by residents and aimed to address their concerns on many issues, including juvenile nuisance.

Now police have said there will be a major crackdown on stores selling alcohol to children.

Pennine Division chief inspector of operations Mick Marren said: "One of the first things we want to do, having ascertained that underage drinking is a real problem, is get tough on off-licences breaking the law.

"Officers will shortly be liaising with stores to warn them about the crack down and anyone who continues to sell alcohol to underage drinkers will face prosecution and the risk of losing their licence. Those who buy alcohol on behalf of youths will also face action."

Chief Inspector Marren said police already had good intelligence on problem shops and were also considering carrying out test purchases.

"This is no empty threat," he added.

Mr Marren said the meeting was extremely productive, with many issues raised.

"Many of these we can now start to address in partnership with other local agencies and members of the community."

He added: "There are other issues we need to address -- some of which can only be tackled in partnership with other agencies.

"However, we now have a clear idea of what is concerning local residents the most."