COUNCIL chiefs battling the scourge of graffiti are cracking down on traders who sell spray paint to youngsters aged under 16.

South Gloucestershire copnmsumer watchdogs say too many businesses are still prepared to supply paint aerososl to youngsters bent of defacing the environment.

As part of Operation Graffiti trading standards officers recently carried out test purchases and found not one single outlet refusing to sell cans to under age volunteers. Targeted traders failed even to ask for the buyers' age or seek proof of identication.

As a result, steps are now being taken to ensure all spray paint suppliers in the district are aware of the minimum age restriction and what steps they can take to prevent illegal sales.

Shirley Potts, South Gloucestershire Council executive member for communities, said: "Increasingly, residents are expressing concern that graffiti is having a detrimental effect on our environment.

"Some groups of volunteers are working to improve the appearance of our neighbourhoods, but traders need to realise that they have an important part to play by refusing to sell aerosol paint to young people."

Since March last year it has been a criminal offence to sell aerosol paint to young people under 16. Anyone guilty of the offence could face a fine of up to £2,500 and a criminal record. A similar test purchase operation is envisaged for 2005-2006.

South Gloucestershire residents or businesses who wish to report underage sales of any age restricted product can inform trading standards on 01454 634001.