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13 November 2014

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You are in: Berkshire > Local radio > Features > Can YOU tell how old she is?

Shay Yari

Shay Yari

Can YOU tell how old she is?

With underage teenagers increasingly looking like adults, retailers have stepped up their ID checks and challenging anyone who looks under 25 to prove their age. But how hard is it for staff to gauge someone's age?

Recently you may have noticed signs in Berkshire supermarkets declaring that you'll be asked for ID when buying age-restricted products if you're lucky enough to look under 25.

Until recently retail staff had only been required to challenge anyone who looks under 21.

So how hard is it for retail staff to gauge someone's age? See if you can tell how old these three Slough shoppers are. (Answers at the bottom of the page).

Amy Murphy

How old is Amy Murphy?

Chris Derrick

How old is Chris Derrick?

Shay Yari

How old is Shay Yari?

The aim of course is to prevent the sale of alcohol, cigarettes and other 18-plus products to underage customers, but the new Think 25 or Challenge 25 campaign will also mean that more adults will need to carry ID with them.

"It can be difficult to judge somebody's age based on their appearance," says Richard Dodd from the British Retail Consortium.

"Retailers are really determined not to sell alcohol to under 18s and they actually have the best record of any type of outlet in preventing underage sales," he adds.

"Previously retailers have challenged anybody who looks like they're under 21, now to make even more sure they're stepping that up."

Slough shoppers speaking to BBC Berkshire have said they feel "insulted" if they're constantly asked to prove their age.

One shopper says: "It makes you feel like a 12-year-old when they keep asking you for ID", while another says: "It's quite annoying when you are 18 and they still ask."

However, older shoppers can have an altogether more positive experience:

"For me it's like a compliment, maybe I look younger than I am!"

Shops are raising the age limit for ID checks because the consequences can be crippling for both the business and their staff.

"The member of staff who sells the product can be prosecuted," says Mr Dodd, "and they can possibly also lose their job. The consequences for the retailer can be serious as they can lose their licence."

Young adults can apply for a Proof Of Age card to prove they're over 18.

Answers!

Amy Murphy is 18
Chris Derrick is 18
Shay Yari is 20

last updated: 15/07/2009 at 17:20
created: 15/07/2009

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