STUDENTS at Pershore High School can now prove their age if they are challenged when buying alcohol or cigarettes.

Pupils have been given free CitizenCards, a national proof-of-age card, which has been issued as a result of local authorities working with Worcestershire County Council's Trading Standards and West Mercia Police to reduce the problem of under-age drinking.

The card is plastic with the cardholder's name, photo, signature, date of birth and age group clearly visible. It also features a hologram and the photo is taken using a digital camera, which makes forgery practically impossible.

Pershore High School head teacher Clive Corbett said: "We are happy to support the CitizenCard proof-of-age scheme. The school is a major part of the local community and we are determined to do what we can to help reduce under-age drinking."

Pershore beat manager Al Tandy also welcomed the scheme, adding: "Under-age drinking, and related social disorder is a problem. We know that under 18s are buying alcohol and that is why the CitizenCard is a real help to licensees.

"We urge the trade to support the scheme and to use the card as an additional means of reducing the harm caused by the sale of alcohol and tobacco to young people."

Alistair McKeag Worcestershire Trading Standards' CitizenCard administrator, said: "We see this as a positive step to reducing under-age sales. We know it is difficult for traders and licensees to guess ages, but now all they have to say is no card, no sale."

CitizenCards can be obtained free of charge for anyone under 19 in Worcestershire by calling the county council's trading standards service on 01905 765394.