Southampton council turns up the heat on retailers selling illegal tobacco

Some of the seized products were smuggled into the country illegally, while others were completely counterfeit, the council said.

Councillor Lorna Fielker, cabinet member for health and adult care, said: “Counterfeit tobacco is not only illegal, but can be more hazardous to your health, as there is no control over the quality of the contents. Fake tobacco products have been found to contain dangerous chemicals, dust, excessively high tar levels and asbestos.

“It’s also never too late to quit, even if you have smoked for many years. Stopping smoking brings many health benefits and reduces your risks of developing lung disease – for tips, tools and support to stop, visit the Today is the Day website.”