ILLEGALLY sited gaming machines have been removed from takeaways in Harwich and Dovercourt.

Licensing officers from Tendring Council served notices and removed the machines from three premises in accordance with the Gambling Act 2005.

The illegal machines were designed for alcohol licensed premises or licences gaming centres and can only be played by people over 18 years of age.

Only machines, known as category D, can be played by under 18s as they have a low pay out or prize.

Nick Turner, cabinet member for environment and coast protection said: “These machines had been illegally sited in premises where children were playing them and which could lead to gambling addiction problems later in life.

“We therefore took action very quickly to see that they were removed.

“We would advise the public to contact our licensing team if they see any of these machines that have a higher pay out in cash than £10 in premises like takeaways or cafes.

“They can then investigate to see what kind of machine it is and whether or not it has been illegally sited.

“We would especially like to know who has been supplying these illegal machines as they can be used to fund other criminal activities”.

The council’s licensing team can be contacted on 01255686565.