BarTalk
How has the smoking ban gone so far?
Gail Brockbank Levers Arms, Darcy Lever, Bolton, Lancs
It's been a bit difficult, especially as more than 60% of our regulars are smokers, and a handful did not appear on Sunday. Some of them drifted back on Monday, so we hope we will see them all returning to the fold eventually. Our smoking shelter is not ready yet, so we erected a temporary gazebo, which was well used in the rain on Sunday afternoon. The smokers have already adopted the gazebo as their territory and refuse to let non-smokers use it!
Adrian Clay Raikes Hall, Blackpool, Lancashire
Takings were well up to the Sunday average on the first day, and our outside umbrellas were very popular with smokers. We are waiting for planning consent for our awnings, so we are having to install temporary facilities for the time being. Most customers have accepted the situation, but in the longer term I need to protect trade by organising more functions and events. All in all, we have not encountered many problems so far.
Mike Fallon Theatre Bar, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria
Most people have been pretty good - only one person has lit up in the pub so far, and that was a genuine mistake. It's a bit disconcerting watching people wandering outside because the first impression is that they are leaving to go somewhere else - but then you realise they have gone out to have a smoke. Some people are reluctant to leave their drinks on the tables when they decide it's time for a cigarette break, but generally it's all gone very smoothly.
Neil Monkman The Fleece, Elland, West Yorkshire
All our customers have been very co-operative. They understand the situation, although there is a grudging acceptance of the ban among some people. We put a covered area on the lawn and it was well used, especially in the rain on Sunday. I have to say that it has made my life a bit easier and the pub smells a whole lot better inside - that's one of the main bonuses. However, things are still at a very early stage and we'll have to cope with the winter weather eventually.
