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Think 25

Moray licensees have been reminded that they will soon be required to have a policy in place for checking the age of anyone who appears to be under 25 before selling them alcohol.

An age verification policy for all licensed premises will become mandatory under new licensing legislation which comes into force on October 1.

Although licensees will not be required to produce a written policy, they will have to demonstrate that they do have a policy in place by displaying appropriate signage on their premises as well as keeping accurate and up to date records.

Many retailers and publicans in Moray already operate a voluntary policy as a matter of good practice.

But under the new legislation it will be a condition attached to all premises licences and occasional licences.

In the weeks and months ahead the Moray Drug and Alcohol Partnership will be issuing packs to all licensed premises in Moray to help raise awareness of the Young Scot card as an acceptable form of proof of age.

In terms of the legislation only a passport, photocard driving licence or approved photographic identity card bearing the PASS hologram - such as the Young Scot card - are acceptable as proof of age.

Moray Licensing Board chairman Councillor Ron Shepherd said: "Although there is no requirement for premises to have a written policy, we will be encouraging all licensees in Moray to have a policy in writing which they will be able to produce on demand.

"With this change in the law it is anticipated that more young people will be challenged for proof of age and it is important that all licensees have a robust policy in place."

Application forms for Young Scot cards are available at all council access points, libraries and school offices across Moray.