IMPORTANT changes to tobacco sales legislation are now in force in Hampshire.

It is currently illegal to sell tobacco products to under 18s – and as of October 1 the ban was extended to include e-cigarettes, refills for e-cigarettes and other nicotine products.

Additional changes also mean that those who buy tobacco, e-cigarettes and other nicotine products on behalf of those aged under 18 may also commit a criminal offence.

Businesses caught selling e-cigarettes, refills for e-cigarettes or other nicotine products to under 18s face legal proceedings and fines of up to £2,500. Adults who buy such products for under 18s can be issued with a fixed-penalty notice or face legal proceedings in the criminal courts.