More than 600 packets of illegal cigarettes and two dozen single-use vapes seized from three shops in Northampton and Daventry

West Northamptonshire’s Trading Standards visited three shops in Northampton and Daventry, and seizures were made at each of them.

The council says in two instances hides were located, with one accessed behind an electric-powered wall and another behind hinged shelving.

In total, 616 packets of illicit cigarettes, 26 pouches/1.3kg of illegal hand-rolling tobacco and 26 illegal vapes were seized.

A West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) spokesman said: “The cigarettes and tobacco found were a mixture of foreign-labelled items intended for sale in other countries with no UK excise duty paid, as well as counterfeit products or ‘cheap white’ cigarettes, neither of which meet British safety standards.

"The confiscated vapes were illegal under the single-use vape ban introduced in June last year.

"All of the seized items will be destroyed.”

Trading Standards officers say they are now working with partners to take further action, including steps to prevent these businesses from future trading.

Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services, added: “This operation is part of sustained efforts to stamp out the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes that not only expose local communities to harmful substances but also undermines legitimate local businesses.

“Our Trading Standards teams will continue to work closely with the police and other partners to take firm, coordinated action against anyone who chooses to break the law and put the public at risk.”

Residents can report illegal tobacco and vapes activity to West Northamptonshire Trading Standards or by phoning the Citizens Advice helpline on 0808 223 1133.