An international supermarket has been banned from selling alcohol after being caught with more than 19,000 smuggled cigarettes.

Express Supermarket in London Road had its alcohol licence revoked by Kingston Council last night, February 4.

A total of 19,180 duty-free cigarettes were seized by officers from Metropolitan Police and HM Revenue and Customs during a visit in September.

The store, which sells English, Turkish and Polish goods, has 21 days to appeal the decision.

Sgt Eddie Armstrong from Kingston Police said: "This review was brought about following a series of events culminating in the seizure of more than 19,000 smuggled cigarettes during a joint enforcement visit by police and HMRC.

"We would remind all licensed premises they should buy their products from a reputable supplier.

"Any premises found with smuggled goods could be subject to a licence review, prosecution or other penalties."

Express Supermarket will be allowed to continue selling other non-alcoholic goods - including tobacco products.