Wandsworth Council's Trading Standards department needs young people to help it crack down on the illegal sale to children of tobacco, alcohol, knives and other restricted items.

Volunteers aged between 14 and 16-and-a-half carry out test purchases at shops. They are fully supervised in accordance with the Home Office code of practice and expenses are covered. They will not be sent to shops close to their home and it is unlikely they will be required to give evidence at court. Trading Standards officers meet with parents beforehand to discuss the process.

Volunteers will be given a certificate which they can keep with their National Record of Achievement folders together with a small voucher in recognition of their assistance.

For details Naveen Kanji on 020 8871 6176 or e-mail nkanji@wandsworth.gov.uk