A new study has shown that Oldham is ranked in the top 20 towns in the UK for demand of illegal vapes.

The study, carried out by online vape retailer Vapekit, analysed the monthly search volume for illegal vapes across the UK over the past 12 months.

Vapes containing more than 2ml of e-liquid are illegal in the UK – but vapes containing 15 times the legal limit of liquid are circulated across the county.

Through analysing search data, the study found that Oldham has the 16th highest searches for illegal vaping products in the UK with 235 searches per 100,000 residents on average each month.

A spokesperson for Oldham Council, said: “No one should be selling or using illegal vapes as they are a significant risk to public health.

“Our Trading Standards team operates on an intelligence led basis and we will take action against those breaking the law.

“In 2023/24 our staff, working alongside the police, seized more than 7,500 illegal vapes and this work is ongoing.

“We would also like to make it clear, that it is illegal to sell any vapes to anyone under 18.

“We regularly visit shops and carry out test purchases.

“If anyone is are aware of any shops selling illegal tobacco or vapes, or selling to those under 18, then report it to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at keep-it-out.co.uk.”

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which proposes to restrict the sale of cigarettes in the country, meaning those born in or after 2009 will never be able to buy tobacco products, passed its second reading two weeks ago.

Debbie Abrahams MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, Jim McMahon MP for Oldham West and Royton and the deputy leader of the opposition, Angela Rayner MP for Ashton-under-Lyne and Failsworth, all voted in favour of the controversial bill.

Guy Lawler, managing director of Vapekit, said: “It’s incredibly concerning to see how illegal vapes are becoming more sought after in the UK, with many consumers having no idea that the products they’re buying are untested and potentially unsafe.

“Retailers have a responsibility to adhere to UK vape regulations, but still, there are rogue operators both on the high street and online who openly sell illegal products and make no attempt to verify whether or not buyers are over 18.

“It is feared that the UK black market could grow exponentially as UK consumers find they are unable to source the products they want legally and affordably.”