How are you finding pub numbers since the smoking ban?

[Lysander]

I know there was a lot of concern about the smoking ban driving away people from pubs, but how has everyone found the crowd levels in pubs now the ban is actually in place? Are there more people, the same, or fewer?

I've been to three pubs since Sunday and I have to say each one was rammed full of people. I was particularly surprised at the crowd levels in the World's End in Camden last night - somewhere I thought would be most affected - with it being impossible to sit down and many people drinking standing up. I don't know about other places but the pubs I've been to seem to be more full since the ban came into effect.

A smoker colleague of mine said she went to a bar last night and it was the same. She also said she was really glad people weren't smoking in the bar since it was far more enjoyable without the fumes.

Maybe the small village pubs may experience some problems but there are a lot of people who seem to be enjoying drinking without smoke wafting over.

 

[Lysander]

I can't believe landlords are letting people smoke. They'll get fined or closed down, that simple. Their stupid Communist mindset won't work.

 

[Lysander]

has anyone seen the ban being enforced anyway, people being told to stop or to leave etc ?

Yes, last night some people were in the toilets smoking. Security were performing regular checks and would haul them outside. I didn't see what happened after that.

Penski - is that true? I've never really looked. Obituary were excellent though.

 

[Lysander]

It would be interesting if we could turn this into a simple poll. Could the moderator on duty add three options to the effect of:

- More people than usual in the pubs in your area
- About the same as usual
- Fewer than usual

Thanks!