Wandsworth Council has backed a new campaign to stamp out illegal tobacco.

Launched by London Councils, London Trading Standards and health professionals across London, the drive aims raise awareness around the illegal trade.

Wandsworth held a roadshow at Southside Shopping Centre last week to highlight the harm caused by the sale of illegal or cheap tobacco and to help people identify it.

The council says telltale signs include:

• Packets with foreign language health warnings

• Packets with no picture health warnings

• Being much cheaper than normal cigarettes (i.e. £3.50 - £5.00 per pack of 20)

• Unusual or foreign brand names, such as Jin Ling – or those from Russia and the Far East.

• Being sold in unusual locations, i.e. pubs, private houses, ice cream vans, burger vans

The council’s health spokesman Cllr Paul Ellis said: “Illegal tobacco is unsafe, funds criminal activities and makes it easier for our young people to become hooked.

“We would urge all local people to get in touch with our trading standards team if they have any evidence of this activity going on in our borough.”

It is estimated that criminal networks are making over £100 million a year from the trade in the capital.

If you see any tobacco products that match the description above or have information which may be useful call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06 or report it online at www.londontradingstandards.org.uk/report-consumer-crime