Pub cigs ban ends as profits dive

Mr Diamond's eye problems were exacerbated by cigarette smoke

A pub landlord who banned smoking in his hostelry because its effects were damaging his eyesight has relented - after his profits took a dive.

Dave Diamond, of the Blue Bell Inn at Old Ellerby in East Yorkshire lifted the ban after only six weeks.

Mr Diamond had been warned by doctors at Hull's eye hospital that cigarette smoke was exacerbating a medical problem with his left eye.

"My eye's no worse than before", he told BBC News.

Regulars

"The staff at the hospital said cigarette smoke wasn't helping with my problem."

Regulars at the pub were told they would have to go outside for a cigarette, but after a few weeks the pub's takings had dropped by a third.

Although most of his customers accepted the ban a couple of 'passing trade' clients had balked at the move.

"Ours is a pub where people come for pint. It would be different if we were a foody pub."

"It wasn't easy to start with, although those who wanted to smoke went outside.

"We did have a problem with one or two who were passing customers."

Although the publican started out with the best of intentions, the financial realities of a self-imposed ban forced a rethink.

"After six weeks we realised...our takings were down by a third", said Mr Diamond.