Children could be sent into Colchester pubs to test bar staff.

Landlords are incensed by plans to trip them up. But police say it will stop licensed premises selling to under-age drinkers.

The new measure part of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, which comes into effect on Saturday means people under the age of 18 can be used by officers to test whether bars are selling within the law.

Staff caught providing alcohol to youngsters and who haven't taken steps to find out their age could be taken to court.

Licensing officer for Essex Police, Mike Aitchison, said it was an offence for bar staff not to ask for ID, but the tests would remain a last resort.

"But after three warnings, if it is still going on, we can send in under-age people to see if they will be served," he said.

Adnan Ademoglu, owner of the Fashion Cafe, in Queen Street, Colchester, and Club Forin, near St Botolph's roundabout, Colchester, said it was an outrage.

"Do you mean if a member of staff has a temporary lapse and serves someone who may look older, they can be taken to court? That is ridiculous," he said.

Published Thursday November 29, 2001