Nine conditions have been attached to the licence of Rima Stores in Lynn Road following a review called for by trading standards and heard by Fenland District Council.

The council’s licensing committee was told that trading standards was concerned about underage sales of alcohol from the shop and in particular failed test purchases.

There had also been a complaint from a local children’s home about the alleged sale of alcohol from the shop to youngsters living there.

All parties involved in managing the licence have now agreed what Fenland Council describes as a “toolkit of conditions which would restore confidence that there would be no further problems at these premises.”

Sgt Dave Bax told the hearing that the conditions were similar to those imposed on the town centre Savers store. By restricting sales of single cans and bottles it was hoped it would combat people being drink and committing anti social behaviour.

One other condition imposed on the shop will prevent the sale of any alcohol which has an ABV (alcohol strength) above 5.5 per cent.

Councillors were told that training of family members involved in the business- including an 81 year old woman who was the mother of the owner- was hampered by the fact English was not their first language.

Store owner Mr Patel has agreed to conditions which include maintaining staff training records, providing CCVT, and joining a local Offwatch or Pubwatch scheme.