Shop shut down for selling illegal goods

A shop in Hyde that sold illegal tobacco products has been closed down.

H Local Store, based on Market Street, was hit with a closure order by Tameside Council after being repeatedly found to be selling illicit cigarettes, hand rolling tobacco and e-cigarettes.

Since 2020, Tameside Council Trading Standards has seized 26,860 illegal cigarettes, 7.45kg of illegal hand rolling tobacco and 284 illegal e-cigarettes from the shop, according to the local authority.

A three month closure order on the premises was granted by Stockport Magistrates’ Court on June 13.

This came following evidence from trading standards and Greater Manchester Police, who told the court the illegal activity was likely to continue unless the business was closed.

Tameside Council’s executive member for environment services and neighbourhoods, Coun Laura Boyle said: “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.

“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.”