FROM next summer a smoking ban becomes law – a decision that has sent shock waves through pubs and restaurants across the country. But Ian Parr, the owner of The Green Man in Thriplow, has met the decision head-on. Instead of waiting for the inevitable,

FROM next summer a smoking ban becomes law - a decision that has sent shock waves through pubs and restaurants across the country.

But Ian Parr, the owner of The Green Man in Thriplow, has met the decision head-on.

Instead of waiting for the inevitable, The Green Man became a smoke-free zone on August 1, a move that has won the pub a National Clean Air Award.

Mr Parr said: "We made the decision to become smoke-free so that our customers are prepared before the ban goes nation-wide.

"We have been able to ease them into it. I think if you allow people to get used to it like that, they become more responsive to the changes."

Zoe Harvey, tobacco control co-ordinator for Smoke Free Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: "We're really pleased that more workplaces, especially pubs, are going smoke-free ahead of legislation."

Mr Parr, who has been the landlord for the past five years, described the change as a positive experience.

He said: "The pub's become a more enjoyable place to eat and drink, and trade has definitely increased. It's also improved the environment for staff.

"So far we've had excellent feedback.

"I think it has made people aware of the situation - and hopefully, at some point, it may even help smokers give up.

"When the ban officially comes into force our no smoking policy will be well established, and we are looking forward to a fresh and busy future."

Any workplaces that are interested in gaining support with going smoke-free in preparation for the new legislation should contact Zoe Harvey at: zoe.harvey@cambsphn.nhs.uk