SCHEMING youngsters are conning North Yorkshire shopkeepers into selling them butane gas, solvents and cigarettes, according to concerned trading standards officers.

They are worried that unsuspecting members of the public are being duped into buying the killer substances for them and catching traders unaware.

North Yorkshire trading standards officers say youths are tricking passers-by with comments such as: "Could you get me a gas lighter refill while I look after my bike, so it won't get stolen."

Not realising the ruse, the adult then buys the product for the youngster.

Officers say this ploy was used recently by a youngster in Scarborough who was later found to be "high" on the butane.

Stuart Pudney, head of trading standards at North Yorkshire County Council, said the shopkeeper, who was also unaware of the trick, was later contacted by an irate grandparent who had dragged the details of the purchase out of the youth. The incident was then brought to the attention of trading standards officers.

Mr Pudney said: "We are urging shopkeepers to beware that youngsters are carrying out these kind of scams, and there are no doubt other similar stories.

"Our message to the public is quite clear - please be alert if youngsters ask you to buy lighter refills, solvents or cigarettes because they can all kill."

Sgt Tim Bright, of York police, warned: "Solvents and butane can and do kill young people the first time they try them."

He said the effects of solvents or butane could also lead youngsters to get involved in dangerous situations they otherwise would not encounter, and could trigger asphyxiation. But he also warned members of the public against unwittingly getting involved in buying dangerous substances for young people.

He said: "If a young person asked someone to buy solvents or lighter fuel for them it is highly likely they want it for solvent abuse."

david.wiles@ycp.co.uk