A store caught selling alcohol to under-18s had its bid to sell alcohol 24 hours a day thrown out yesterday after its owner failed to show up for a licensing meeting.

Worthing Borough Council's licensing committee was adjourned for half an hour as officers tried to find owner Rahmi Aktepe.

They eventually called him at his International Food Centre in Teville Road, Worthing, and were told he wanted to withdraw his application.

Councillor Graham Fabes, who chaired the meeting, told The Argus: "I think it was probably because of the fact the police had an action against him last month."

As part of a police sting the International Food Centre was visited on March 27 by a 16-year-old boy who bought a bottle of Smirnoff Ice without being challenged or asked for ID.

A member of staff responsible was fined £80 and Mr Aktepe received a formal warning.

Coun Paul Yallop, whose Central ward includes the International Food Centre, said: "I'm pleased the application has not been granted but I would have liked to have had a hearing so residents could have had their say.

"We were a bit disappointed. At the moment local stores are having to compete with the likes of Tesco and I think what they need to do is get the community to support them."