Northern Ireland bans sale of cigarettes to under-18s

The ban, announced by health minister Michael McGimpsey back in June this year, came into force on 1 September.

Shopkeepers in Northern Ireland are being warned not to sell cigarettes to anyone in school uniform.

Paul Rafferty, environmental health officer at Derry City Council, said: "Most adult smokers become addicted to tobacco when they begin smoking in their early teens. It is hoped by making it more difficult for young children to buy cigarettes the new law will protect many of them from a lifetime of nicotine addiction and ill-health."

As of 1 September anyone selling cigarettes to under-18s will be liable for a fine up to £2,500.

McGimpsey said the change was to try and cut the amount of smoking among children and young people in Northern Ireland.