POLICE in Tavistock issued an appeal to parents regarding the consumption of energy drinks by children.

Sgt Dave Anning said there was an emerging issue regarding energy drinks for several reasons.

Sgt Anning said: 'Starting the school day with a bloodstream full of drugs designed to keep drivers hyper-alert is not a good thing, and some of our local schoolchildren are even getting themselves into difficulties with the police by stealing these drinks.'

Sgt Anning said the latest incident involved a girl estimated to be about 12 years old who filled her backpack with energy drinks from a local shop at about 4pm on October 18, and then left without paying for them. Police are now inspecting CCTV footage.

Sgt Anning said: 'Consumption of junk food can also be a sign that kids are not being properly fed in the morning and obviously this can be a sign of other neglect.

'Some stores have a policy of not selling these sort of drinks to children, and consideration is being given to asking local retailers to consider at least not selling them before school starts.'