Putney shop licence reviewed over underage alcohol sales

Stonehenge Food and Wine, a corner shop located in Putney, is facing a review of its alcohol licence by Wandsworth Council. The review follows a pattern of serious and repeated failures to uphold licensing objectives, particularly concerning the prevention of crime and disorder and the protection of children from harm, according to a report by Wandsworth licensing officers.

History of Warnings and Breaches

The shop received its first formal warning on April 22 after an inspection revealed breaches in multiple areas. These included issues with CCTV systems, incident logs, staff training, and the adherence to the 'Challenge 25' age-verification policy. The sale of high-strength single cans was also noted as a breach. A second warning was issued on June 30 when inspectors found these breaches had not been resolved. During this period, the shop failed two test purchases, with alcohol sold to a 16-year-old volunteer on April 17 and another underage volunteer on June 24.

John McGann, Wandsworth's senior licensing officer, informed the council's licensing hearing on Thursday, September 3, that a third warning was given after an inspection on August 25. This inspection confirmed that significant breaches of the shop's licence conditions persisted. Mr McGann stated that despite multiple inspections, formal warnings, and opportunities to correct the issues, the evidence showed continued non-compliance, two instances of underage alcohol sales, and a persistent disregard for conditions designed to protect the public.

Mr McGann advocated for the revocation of the shop's licence, citing the repeated underage sales, ongoing licence breaches, consistent failures following intervention, and a lack of meaningful improvement. The shop, situated on Lower Richmond Road, has held its licence since July 2025. Abdul Hamid Hamidi, who took over the licence in April, has apologised for the failed test purchases and acknowledged his responsibilities concerning alcohol sales. He reported that a 'Challenge 25' poster had been displayed in the shop before the council's third inspection.

Next Steps

The licensing committee's decision regarding the licence review is expected to be published in the coming days. The committee has the authority to take no action, issue a warning, modify the licence conditions, suspend the licence, or revoke it entirely.