Police sought a closure order on the Taunton Market shop, in Station Road. Picture: Avon & Somerset Police

Taunton shop closed after selling “illegal tobacco and counterfeit goods”

Paul JonesDecember 11, 20250 Comment0

A TAUNTON shop has been ordered to close for three months which has been selling non-compliant vapes, illegal tobacco and counterfeit goods.

Police worked alongside Trading Standards to secure a court order after presenting evidence of Taunton Market’s links to criminality and associated anti-social behaviour.

Taunton Magistrates’ Court was satisfied the Station Road store has been linked to criminality, nuisance and disorder and granted the order on Monday (December 8).

PC Lydia Shipton, from the Taunton neighbourhood policing team, said: “The issues caused in the community as a direct result of the sale of these items cannot be understated.

“We are particularly aware of the concerns from parents and other members of the public in relation to the sale of products from these premises.

“The illegal sale of items has been ongoing for a significant period of time, and we’ve worked closely with our partners, including Trading Standards, to make sure we had a strong case to put before the court.

“We hope the closure of this premises reassures the community that we take action against those that harm our communities.”

Evidence to secure the closure order under Section 80 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act was gathered by Avon and Somerset Police and partners.

The closure order is now in place for three months, which could be extended for a further three months. Anybody who attempts to enter the property will be committing a criminal offence.