Landlord bans smoking in award-winning pub (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Landlord bans smoking in award-winning pub

THE landlord of an award-winning pub is stubbing out smoking on his premises.

Rob Greenstock, owner of the Howard Arms in Ilmington said that from March 1, smoking will not be permitted anywhere in the building.

His decision follows extensive consultation with drinkers and diners at the pub, who overwhelmingly backed the plan.

Questionnaires were completed in the run-up to Christmas and of more than 500 respondents 78 per cent thought the move to a smoke free pub was an excellent or good idea.

Mr Greenstock, whose pub was recently voted the Good Pub Guide's UK Dining Pub of the Year, said: "We have always been about serving great food and were well aware that smoking and eating don't go well together. Rather than force the ban on our customers we asked them what they thought and the answer was loud and clear. The reaction among regulars since the announcement has been very encouraging and we're counting down the days with growing anticipation."

Lesley MacKinnon, from Smoke Free Warwickshire, added her support.

"Second-hand smoke has been ignored as a serious health hazard for far too long and we would like to congratulate the Howard Arms for pioneering the protection of their staff and customers from tobacco smoke.

"The move is very timely as Wednesday, March 9 is No Smoking Day when people are encouraged to contact their local services for help to stop smoking," said Ms MacKinnon.