A Bangor convenicnce store has been forced to close after it was caught illegally selling tobacco and vapes.

Police were granted a three-month closure order for Top Shop, formerly known as the City Mini Market, in court on Monday.

It follows a lengthy investigation by trading standards officers into the illegal sale of illegal cigarettes and tobacco vapes, as well as counterfeit and potentially unsafe toys.

Cyngor Gwynedd said the High Street shop's ownership had changed frequently - a known tactic used to avoid enforcement action.

A series of test purchases confirmed the supply of illicit tobacco and cigarettes, with officer seizing a significant amount of illegal vapes and counterfeit toys as part of their investigation.

Caernarfon magistrates granted the closure order, which runs until midnight on Tuesday 2nd June, after the council issued a closure notice against the shop and its landlord last month.

Cllr Craig ab Iago, cabinet member for the environment, said: "When people visit a shop, they have a right to expect that what they purchase is safe and genuine."

He added: "Whilst our officers always aim to engage positively with businesses to help them understand their responsibilities, there comes a point when we have no choice but to take legal action."

"This closure order sends a clear message about our commitment to tackling the supply of illegal products in our communities."

"We urge the public to be incredibly mindful over what they buy and not to support this illicit trade which poses real risks to all of us."

Cyngor Gwynedd says illegal vapes often contain nicotine strengths above legal limits and potentially harmful chemicals.

Specialist tobacco detecton dogs are among a range of methods used by trading standards officers to uncover concealed products - which according to the council, is a clear indicator that operators know of their illegal activities.