A 'nuisance' shop has been shut down as police look to stamp out the sale of illicit tobacco products.

Officers have Cheshire Police's Eastern Problem-Solving Team have closed down eight shops in the region after successfully applying for a number of closure orders.

Among those shut under the powers of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 is Swan Bank Mini Market in Congleton.

"Shops such as these can contribute to anti-social behaviour, criminality, child criminal and sexual exploitation and are a blight on the high street," said a spokesperson for Congleton Local Policing Unit.

"These orders demonstrate that we will take action when these issues are reported to us, and we encourage people to report suspicious activity or illegal sales."

The Eastern Problem-Solving Team were granted seven closure orders on Thursday, November 5, after officers submitted evidence to the court following concerns that illicit tobacco products were being sold within the retailers.

The orders were then enforced at the following premises, which will now remain closed until February 2027:

Download our Nub News App!

- It’s FREE and available now
- Breaking news notifications
- Your Town in Your Pocket

• Swan Bank Mini Market, Swan bank, Congleton
• The Vape Club, lawton Road, Alsager
• Sandbach Mini market, Bradwall Road, Sandbach
• Marvel Corner Shop, Congleton Road, Sandbach
• Euro-Plus, Sunderland Street, Macclesfield
• Yum Yum, Chestergate, Macclesfield
• Express Mini Market, Mill Street, Macclesfield

On Tuesday, November 10, a closure order already in place at the Victoria Mart on Queen Victoria Street in Macclesfield was extended until February 2027.

Police have warned that anyone who enters any of the properties whilst they remain closed could face a hefty fine or even a prison sentence.

Police Constable Helen Weeks said: "I hope that the action of closing seven retailers involved in criminal activity, and keeping an eighth closed for even longer, sends a clear message to those involved in any form of criminality that their actions will not be tolerated in the east of Cheshire.

"I also hope that it reassures residents that police do listen to their concerns and will always take action when they come to us with any concerns.

"With that said, we cannot act without your vital information. So if you are aware of any criminality taking place in your area, let us know and we will take it from there."