WIDNES has the seventh highest demand for illegal vapes in the UK, according to a new study.

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 Widnes has the seventh highest searches for illegal vaping products in the UK with 271 searches per 100,000 residents.

Runcorn also featured within the top 20 areas in the UK, with 231.

“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,” said Guy Lawler, managing director of Vapekit.

“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.”

Restrictions around access to vapes have been widely discussed recently due to the Tabacco and Vapes Bill, as well as the announcement of a vape tax on March 6.

The government are also set to ban the sale of disposable vapes by 2025 to help prevent children from accessing them.

“Vapes are meant to help people quit smoking, but the ever-growing black market is putting people’s health at risk,” said Mr Lawler.

“Some of these non-compliant products even feature cartoon characters that attract younger people who should not be vaping.”

The Tabacco and Vapes Bill passed its second reading in the House of Commons last week, with both Mike Amesbury, MP for Weaver Vale, and Derek Twigg, MP for Halton, voting in favour.

But while legal restrictions will likely be implemented to help regulate the sale of vapes, there are concerns about the potential increase in black market sales.

“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,” said Guy.

“The proposed vape tax will result in a 300 per cent increase in cost for many vapers with those from low-income households hit the hardest.

“We strongly urge the government to prioritise public health and clamp down on black market imposters and retailers as a matter of urgency.”