Patrols to deter illegal smoking

Patrols will take place in Cwmbran after complaints from shoppers

Shoppers smoking illegally in a town centre more than two years after a ban was introduced are being targeted.

Torfaen council said members of the public in Cwmbran town centre were still ignoring the ban on smoking in enclosed public places.

Following complaints, patrols will take place to deter lighting up in covered areas.

Anyone breaking the law may be issued with a £50 fine, or £30 if paid promptly.

The town's partly-covered malls have caused smokers confusion in the past about where they can light up.

Posters and public address announcements have been used to inform shoppers of the areas where smoking is forbidden, such as the bus station.

But the council said despite more than 100 warnings, 10 fines and two successful prosecutions since the ban was introduced in Wales in April 2007, a small number of people continued to break the law.

Council officers, supported by Gwent Police and shopping centre managers, will patrol the town this week.

Councillor Gwyneira Clark, council executive member for planning and public protection, said those choosing to smoke in covered areas were putting other people's health at risk from second-hand smoke.

"We hope that by carrying out high-visibility patrols and informing people in advance of our visit that this will act as a strong reminder, without the need for fines to be handed out," she added.