From July 1 virtually all workplaces, work vehicles and enclosed public places must be smoke free.

But what does this mean for your business, and what will you need to do to ensure you are not inadvertently breaking the law?

To answer these questions, Lancaster City Council has launched a comprehensive new website aimed at providing all the information you will need in a practical and easily digestible format.

Advice for both small and large businesses is given. There are case studies of companies who have already gone smoke free ahead of the deadline, answers to frequently asked questions, and guidance for anybody trying to stop smoking.

Visit www.smokefree lancasterdistrict.org.uk to make sure you are up to speed on the new smoke free legislation.

The city council has also appointed a smokefree officer, Gordon Barr.

His role is primarily more educational than enforcement and he will be visiting premises around the area to advise them on their roles and responsibilities prior to the smokefree legislation coming into force.

Laws
He will be one of a team of officers who, from July 1, will be working to ensure the new laws are being enforced.

Gordon's other duties will include assistance in associated matters such as litter campaigns to do with cigarette ends, noise issues where smokers are congregating and causing a nuisance to residents, and promotion of the smokefree issue for example in schools and community groups.

He can be contacted initially on 01524 582732 or gbarr@lancaster. gov.uk.