The age limit has risen from 16 in England, Scotland and Wales, as part of the Government's attempts to reduce the number of teenage smokers.

Retailers who sell tobacco to under-18s will face prosecution and a fine of up to £2,500.

The Association of Convenience Stores' (ACS) website has a run-down on what tobacco retailers should know about the legal changes. There is also more information on the Tobacco Age Change website.