A town centre newsagent's had its licence revoked after it illegally sold alcohol and drugs were found on the premises.

Brent Council removed the licence from Cedar Grocery Store, in Manor Park Road, Harlesden, after “numerous breaches”.

On several occasions the police and licensing officers from the council found issues with the shop, including concerns over CCTV and the illegal sale of alcohol.

Police officers also found drug paraphernalia, cannabis plants, and other class B drugs at the site.

Despite several attempts to contact and work with the licence holder – Nana Agyei – officers found him to be unco-operative.

“He’s clearly undermined the licensing objectives,” said Brent Council licencing officer Esther Chan.

“Mr Agyei was never really visible and did not make any contact with us – it seems it was used as a disguise to undertake illegal activity.”

Her view was supported by Nicola McDonald, from the Metropolitan Police, who said the licence holder had shown a “blatant disregard for the law”.

She explained that the area has suffered from anti-social behaviour and “drug-fuelled crime” and accused Mr Agyei of ignoring his responsibilities.

“To prevent a rapid escalation and put the public at risk of more harm, the licence should be revoked,” she said.

The council’s licensing committee agreed, noting that Mr Agyei had made “no attempts” to address the situation.

This – combined with the evidence provided by Ms McDonald and Ms Chan – meant that it had “no other option” but to cancel the licence.