IT WAS a watershed in Plymouth's social history, triggering seismic changes which are still reverberating today. Its controversial introduction divided public opinion, prompting doomsday forecasts from many involved in the pub and club trade and complaints for those who felt their personal liberties were being infringed. Yet its public health benefits have been incalculable, cutting illnesses and deaths and encouraging thousands to enjoy a healthier lifestyle: all of which perhaps helps to explain why today's first anniversary of the introduction of the smoking ban in England has been greeted with a mixture of emotions. Whatever one's views on this emotive subject, it is indisputable that this legislation has had some far-reaching effects: certainly in the licensed trade, where many of those questioned in The Herald's recent survey of pubs and clubs said the ban had a detrimental effect on their business. Several respondents blamed it for a fall-off in the number of customers and said the ban had had a severe impact. It has changed the nature and character of the traditional British pub, and led to many smokers feeling ostracised because they are now forced to huddle outside their favourite pub if they want to enjoy a cigarette with their drink. Some people also believe that it is hypocritical to ban smoking in enclosed spaces when the sale of tobacco is still legal.

These are valid concerns, but we believe the positives of the ban far outweigh the negatives. There can be no doubt that this landmark legislation has led to a massive improvement in our city's health. Sarah Wyatt, smoking cessation manager at the Plymouth Primary Care Trust, said that removing smoking from indoor workplaces and public places was having a direct impact on reducing the number of deaths from medical conditions caused by secondhand smoke. Meanwhile, the 2,120 people who have been encouraged to quit smoking in our city, helped by the Plymouth NHS Stop Smoking Service, is impressive and encouraging. But if anything justifies the introduction of the ban, it should be the story of lung cancer survivor Jack Samuels. He wants to encourage others to kick the habit and told us: “I wish I had given up before I did.” If this legislation ensures that fewer people end up becoming hooked, then it is surely worth it.