The premises were targeted by officers early on Friday evening after two youths were seen loitering outside Costsavers off-licence and minutes later an adult left the shop and met them around the side of the property.

Officers in plain clothes saw the adult hand over four bottles of cider to the youths and leave in his vehicle. He was followed by two officers andissued with an £80 fixed penalty for buying alcohol for the youths.

The alcohol was confiscated and the youths dealt with by police.

PC Janet Cowley said: "We will continue to target off-licences where we know this sort of problem is happening. We would warn any adults who buy alcohol for youths that it is a criminal offence and they will be issued with appropriate fixed penalties when caught.

"The police are doing their utmost to control the supply of alcohol to underage youths and curb associated anti-social behaviour, but adults and parents must realise that by aiding youths in the purchase of alcohol they are contributing significantly to the very problems the community complain about."

She added: "It appears some youths are still managing to get their hands on alcohol which is clearly a concern for us. Buying alcohol on behalf of an underage drinker is a criminal offence and is something we are keen to try to stamp out.

"Adults need to realise that buying alcohol for youths is not acceptable. In doing so they are gambling with the health and welfare of that young person and probably contributing to local anti-social behaviour problems, which are often fuelled by drink. They are also risking a hefty fine.

"Buying for youngsters is not something that will be tolerated and if we have evidence individuals are doing that, we will take positive action."

Over 40 litres of alcohol has been seized from youths on the streets of Burnley over the weekend.