Since July 1, 2007 virtually all enclosed public places and workplaces must be smoke free to reduce the risks to health from the exposure to secondhand smoke. And in Hambleton environmental health officers say both businesses and members of the public have embraced the new legislation.

“Overall the new regulations have been positively received. We have found a high compliance rate and no need to take enforcement action,” said environmental health officer, Peter Taylor.

“The main issue we have been dealing with is the lack of signage and the location and size of smoking shelters.”