A BOLTON landlord, who has vowed to flout the smoking ban, has travelled to Scotland to support publicans who claim the legislation has destroyed their businesses.

The first anniversary of the Scottish smoking ban has seen drink sales in pubs, clubs and bars fall by 11 per cent - and one third of landlords say they have been forced to lay off staff off because profits are down.

Nick Hogan, who owns the Swan pub in Churchgate, Bolton, went to Fife to support to fellow publicans and meet with politicians to make his feelings known.

Mr Hogan said: "I'm on a 500-mile round trip, that's how strongly I feel about this. I don't advocate smoking, but I do advocate freedom of choice.

"Behind the armed forces and the health service, the leisure industry is the third biggest employer in the UK and the ban has caused devastation in Scotland."

But health bosses have hailed the ban a huge success, claiming more people have quit smoking in Scotland since it was introduced.

Jan Hutchinson, director of public health for Bolton Primary Care Trust, said: "Early evidence is showing a noticeable impact in Scotland in terms of the increased number of people giving up smoking since the ban was introduced. We're really hopeful of the seeing the same impact here.

"The health benefits both for the individuals who quit and for the people who no longer have to breathe second-hand smoke will be seen over many years.

"Staff working in previously smoky environments, for example pubs and clubs, will be among those who benefit."

Dr Peter Terry, chairman of the British Medical Association in Scotland, said the ban had made a "huge difference" to patient health, but is also calling for a campaign to target pregnant women and wants to see the purchase age of cigarettes raised from 16 to 18.

In February, 2006, MPs voted with a massive majority for a ban on smoking in all enclosed public places, including pubs, clubs and private members bars.

The ban in England is due to be introduced on July 1.