WHAT A DRAG!

And a quick ring-around of pubs in East Sussex the next day revealed that publicans are naturally worried at potential loss of trade but quietly resigned to the cultural and social changes that are now inevitable.

Claire Murray, landlady at the Lewes Arms, said: 'I gave up smoking in November in anticipation of the ban and the aggravation of having to go outside to smoke.

'I am glad the ban extends to clubs and restaurants; at least we have a level playing field.

'I believe it will hit pubs' trade. A lot of smokers tend to drink as well. The two seem to go hand in hand.'

Anthony Patterson, assistant manager at the Wellington in Seaford, said: 'I think it will cause short-term loss of trade.

'Evidence elsewhere suggests non-smoking pubs initially lose customers until they get used to the idea and come back.'

Geoff Baker, of the George in Hailsham, said: 'There will be an initial reaction for the worse but I believe it will settle down. It will then be a good thing because it will attract back the non-smokers who been away for too long.'

Nanetta Lillis at the Crown in Heathfield said: 'It is good news for non-smokers; but when I speak to customers, most seem very unhappy as they like to smoke and have a pint when they come in from work.

'Some are saying they will now do their drinking at home.

'But I think in the end customers will come back as the pub will always last.'

Phil Tucker, manager at the Alma Arms, Uckfield, said: 'It's a bit of a relief for me. We have been wondering what to do for some time.

'Now we have a fait accompli, courtesy of the government, and everyone will be treated the same.'