A CONCERNED Halstead parent has expressed his frustrations after finding his teenage son had been sold a vape from a shop despite not being old enough.

The resident from Halstead, who did not wish to be named, found the device in his 14-year-old son’s bedroom.

Only people aged over 18 are legally allowed to buy vapes in the UK.

The father claims it has been sold from a shop in the Halstead area.

He has spoken out in a bid to warn other parents about the issue.

He said: “I just found it in his bedroom. I didn’t expect a 14-year-old to be dabbling in this, they shouldn’t.

“I have seen multiple children in school uniforms going into shops and buying these products, alongside other items like energy drinks or sweets.

“I’ve spoken to the parents of his friends, and they have found the same issues.

“These shops are enabling this behaviour, if it were drugs or alcohol there might be more uproar.

“You can walk past any bus stops and see youths vaping and it is very harmful to young children.

“My anger is there is legislation and it should be adhered to, these shops are not doing that.

"I just want to warn other parents to look out for this."

A spokesperson for Essex Trading Standards said: “Essex Trading Standards is receiving increasing numbers of complaints from across the county, including the Halstead area, regarding the sale of vape products containing nicotine to under 18’s.

“We cannot confirm receipt of complaints against any specific business, however, Trading Standards actions any complaints, advises businesses and also has a test purchasing programme using under 18 volunteers. Action will be taken against any business persistently selling any age restricted products to under 18’s.

“If members of the public wish to report sales of any age restricted products, including vapes, to Trading Standards they can do so via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.”