CHILDREN are stealing vapes in Newport - a product you must be aged 18 or over to buy legally.

Isle of Wight police officer PC Holmes has said vapes are the most stolen product in the town, and the thefts are mainly committed by children.

He said on the Isle of Wight Police Facebook page: "I am currently on an attachment with the Newport Neighbourhood Team and I’ve noticed vapes are the most stolen item in the town currently.

"These thefts are mainly committed by children. I have been out patrolling and visiting retail premises in Newport this afternoon as we have begun working with premises around the stands and accessibility of them to younger people."

He warned: "You must be 18 or over to use or purchase e-cigarettes or e-liquids in the UK.

"It is illegal for e-cigarette retailers to sell vaping products to anyone under the age of 18.

"It is also illegal for someone 18 or over to purchase vaping products on the behalf of anyone underage."