THERE is no doubt that the smoking ban has encouraged people to quit the habit and has improved the health of Bolton residents.

The ban, which was introduced last year, includes pubs, clubs, restaurants and any other public buildings - almost.

There have been stories about rock stars, such as Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, being cautioned for smoking on stage.

The Octagon Theatre in Bolton has now contacted season ticket holders and patrons to inform them that its current production will feature smoking on stage - an exemption allowed where artistic integrity is involved. As a result, the theatre has offered refunds to those who no longer wish to attend, or the opportunity for them to change seats.

Anti-smoking campaigners may not be happy that the actors are lighting up, but, while supporting the ban, we believe its enforcement in this case would represent the watering down of the writer's work.

We believe the ban does represent a positive move in improving people's health, but we should not be made to live in a nanny state.