OK SHOP in Rossington has been ordered to close for three months and its owners ordered to pay £2,436.14 after trading standards officers found it repeatedly selling illegal vapes and counterfeit cigarettes.
Repeated offending despite enforcement
The store had been the subject of multiple investigations over the past year, after incriminating evidence suggested it was selling both illegal vapes and counterfeit cigarettes. Large quantities of illicit goods were seized during these visits, and enforcement action was repeatedly taken against the business.
However, the offending continued. Trading standards recently returned to the premises for another inspection and, once again, found contraband items on sale.
Closure order granted
Using powers under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, trading standards issued a closure notice prohibiting entry to the shop for 48 hours. An application for a full closure order was then made to Doncaster Magistrates’ Court and granted on 29 September 2026.
The business must now remain closed for a further three months, the current maximum. Anyone entering the premises without a reasonable excuse could face an unlimited fine or a prison sentence.
The District Judge stated that granting the closure order was “overwhelmingly necessary” to prevent criminal activity from taking place.
Public health warning
Councillor Gemma Cobby, cabinet member for regulation and enforcement, planning and safer communities, said: “Illegal trading has no place in Doncaster and, as this most recent case shows, our teams are persistent and will catch those responsible.
“The sale of counterfeit tobacco and illegal vape products is not a victimless crime. Their distribution poses a serious health risk to the public, and that is why we have zero tolerance for this kind of criminality.
“Members of the public can help us crack down on the issue by making our trading standards team aware of any concerns they may have about the practices of local businesses. We investigate all reports that come through to us, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”
Rachael Leslie, director of public health at City of Doncaster Council, added: “Counterfeit vapes are a serious risk to people’s health. Unlike regulated products, they are not subject to safety standards or ingredient checks, meaning users can be exposed to harmful substances and unpredictable health effects.
“Residents are strongly advised not to purchase these products from illicit or unregulated sources.”
