High street shop forced to temporarily close after three seizures of illegal cigarettes
A Leigh town centre shop has been forced to close for three months following an ongoing crackdown on illegal cigarettes and vapes.
Wigan Council’s Trading Standards team, in partnership with Greater Manchester Police, secured the closure order against Bry's Mini Market in Leigh after making three seizures of illegal cigarettes and vapes from the Bradshawgate store, following a number of complaints received from the public.
The order, which was granted at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court on Thursday, 30 October, follows ongoing enforcement action across the borough against those who sell illegal vapes and illicit products.
Councillor Kevin Anderson, portfolio holder for Police, Crime and Civil Contingencies, said: "This closure order is the latest example of the council taking action against unscrupulous traders found to be selling illegal cigarettes or vapes.
"Working alongside our partners in the police, we have seized tens of thousands of illegal vapes and illicit goods in recent years, worth thousands of pounds, and we will continue this enforcement work to prevent and deter others from this activity."
With these illegal products putting residents - and particularly children - at the risk of harm, work to tackle this has been led by the borough's Community Safety Partnership (CSP), which sees Wigan Council's Trading Standards team working alongside the police and other partners.
Following the legal action, Bry's Mini Market premises will remain closed for three months. The council can apply for a further extension if necessary.
The council remain committed to proactively targeting traders who sell illegal goods. If you have concerns or wish to report the sale of illegal cigarettes and vapes, please call 0808 223 1133 or email [email protected]
Posted on Friday 31st October 2025