A proof of age card scheme has been launched by Kingston Council for all Year 13 pupils in the borough.

Kingston Council’s Trading Standards and Public Health has offered the Proof of Age London (PAL) cards for free to all 17-18 year old pupils in the borough as part of a pilot initiative.

The cards, which usually cost £8, are Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) accredited, and aim to give young people a reliable form of ID and help businesses minimise the risk of selling age-restricted goods to minors.

Nearly 600 cards have been issued under the pilot scheme.

The Hollyfield School in Surbiton is one of the schools signed up.

James Whymark, Hollyfield's sixth form students services officer, said: “Student participation has been enthusiastic and they are quickly realising the benefits of having the card when going out and enjoying the vibrant social life in Kingston.”

Councillor David Glasspool, lead member for arts, leisure and heritage, said: "By promoting the use of this ID, we are also helping businesses in our area to have a simple and effective way to check someone’s age and minimise the risk of falling foul of the law.”

The card can also be bought for £8 by anyone aged 16-25 and living or studying in a London borough. For more information visit kingston.gov.uk