A RESTAURANT is encouraging others to follow its example by promoting smoke-free places to eat in the North-East.
Maxine's, at the New Grange Hotel, Darlington, is the only non-smoking restaurant in town.
Hotel owner, Duncan Bannatyne, believes the issue needs to be addressed.
UK legislation only bans smoking in public places for reasons of safety or hygiene, not on health grounds.
The public places charter in Britain has drawn up acceptable codes of practice which makes provision for non-smokers in the hospitality industry.
Mr Bannatyne said: "It has been proven that passive smoking can cause serious illness which can be avoided, and the New Grange Hotel wants diners to feel comfortable and relaxed in the smokeless environment which we have created. Increasing numbers of people are looking for smoke-free environments to socialise."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article