Fun day set to be breath of fresh air

Some pubs and bars in the town are actually boasting of increased takings since the ban on July 1.

The free event, which has been organised by a local alliance of organisations, will be staged around Clock Corner and the markets areas from 11am to 3pm.

The event will feature bands, dancers, children's entertainers, information stalls and a performance by opera singers Ti Amero.

Amanda Stocks, Doncaster's Smokefree Coordinator, said: "The aim is to give Doncaster a pat on the back for all the work that has been done to create new smoke-free public areas."

Early reports suggest the legislation, designed to protect people from the harmful effects of breathing in second-hand tobacco smoke, has been a breath of fresh air to Doncaster residents and local businesses alike.

Mark Naylor, manager of the Wetherspoons pub Gate House, on Priory Walk, said: "The smoking ban has been welcomed by both customers and staff.

"In the five weeks after the legislation was introduced our food sales went through the roof, with our overall takings being up by over 10 per cent. We are seeing a lot more family groups in the dining area."

The ban prompted Mark to focus on his own lifestyle and after taking the decision to quit smoking he now has his eyes set on the London Marathon.

He said: "As a smoker working in a smoky environment I knew I would never be able to tackle it, but now my working environment is smoke-free it has given me the push I needed to stop smoking so I've applied for a place in the race."

Other town centre managers are also reporting more new faces and increased takings, including Anthony Spurr, from Flares on Hallgate, which has also seen its weekly income rise by 10 per cent.

Dr Tony Baxter, Doncaster's Director of Public Health, said: "Having smoke-free public places and work premises will save thousands of lives over the coming years."