AN illegal worker and counterfeit goods have been discovered after a recent trading standards sting.

Businesses in Leigh and Hindley were investigated in a joint operation which found the illegal worker as well as 115 packs of cigarettes and tobacco at a value of around £500, with some of them found to be counterfeit.

Wigan Council and Immigration and Electricity North West are two organisations who have been working on the operation after a tip-off from members of the public.

Julie Middlehurst, group manager for regulatory services at the council, said: “It is really disappointing that some people choose to completely disregard the law.

“This is a positive outcome for all those involved and I am extremely pleased that officers have been able to remove the tobacco.

“ As illicit tobacco is often much cheaper, it makes it easier for our children to start smoking.”

The illegal worker is now being investigated by Immigration Services.

One premises which had a tampered electricity meter had its power cut off immediately.

Businesses in Ashton were also visited in the operation.

If you have any information about the sale of illegal tobacco, contact Wigan Council in confidence on 01942 827479 or e-mail ts@wigan.gov.uk.