Illegal vapes and cigarettes found at Darlington mini-markets

Corporation Mini Market on Corporation Road and 4 Seasons Mini Market on Gladstone Street were served with closure orders following a hearing at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (February 18).

The closure orders stop any business from operating from the buildings for the next three months, though this can be extended by up to six months at the court’s discretion.

Between April 2024 and January 2026 trading standards officers visited Corporation Mini Market on several occasions seizing illegal goods with a total estimated retail value of more than £14,000.

Officers also made multiple visits to 4 Seasons Mini Market, formerly known as 3 Stop Shop, Your Shop and Greengros, between June 2024 and January this year.

4 Seasons Mini Market on Gladstone Street has also been ordered to close (Image: DARLINGTON BOROUGH COUNCIL)

Officers seized more than £47,000 worth of illegal tobacco products and vapes from properties, vehicles and bins associated with the premises.

Further evidence detailing a long-standing history of criminal behaviour associated with both premises was also presented to magistrates, including intelligence received from the police and the general public about illegal and underage sales.

Cllr Jim Garner, cabinet member for stronger communities, Darlington Borough Council, said: “Delivering safer, healthier communities, ensuring local people live well for longer and building a strong, sustainable local economy are three of our main priorities.

“I am delighted with the continued progress being made to frustrate and disrupt the illegal tobacco market, which undermines honest local businesses, and places public health at risk by encouraging smoking and targeting young people with pocket money prices.”

Inspector David Littlefair, from Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team, added: “This type of criminal activity helps fund organised crime groups and goes hand-in-hand with drug dealing, child exploitation and money laundering.

“We are committed to working with our partners to end these illegal operations and will continue to work tirelessly to protect our local communities from the very real dangers posed by these businesses.”

Anyone with information about the sale of illegal tobacco, vapes or cigarettes in Darlington is urged to email tradingstandards@darlington.gov.uk, or report it using the online form at www.darlington.gov.uk/ts-report-it.

You can also contact the police on 101 or report online via the 101 Live Chat: www.durham.police.uk/Report-It/101-Live-Chat.