Smoking ban has cost me my pub - landlord (From Bury Times)

Smoking ban has cost me my pub - landlord

12:38pm Thursday 16th August 2007

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THE smoking ban has forced a Bury pub landlord out of business.

Non-smoker Les Fuller has thrown in the towel at the Seven Stars in Rochdale Road after losing thousands of pounds in income since the nationwide ban came into effect on July 1.

He has laid off a number of staff in the past two months and the doors have been closed early on week nights, and as early as 9.30pm on some Sundays, as customers who smoke prefer to stay at home.

Les believes the poor summer weather is an indication of the severe difficulties the pub trade will face throughout the winter and predicts traditional locals will disappear within the next five years.

He said: "The licensed industry has faced many difficulties over the years but none as destructive and as costly as this smoking ban.

"Since it was introduced, my pub's takings have dropped by around £400 a week, or £20,000 a year, and no business can survive that.

"Up until the end of June, the pub was a thriving, community local. People, a large majority of whom are smokers, came in after a hard day's work to enjoy a pint and chat with other regulars in a welcoming and comfortable environment.

"Now, the atmosphere has been destroyed. Conversations are cut off in mid flow and there is more movement as customers go outside for a cigarette."

He added: "The poor summer hasn't helped. Many people have decided to stay at home. But I can't blame smokers for not wanting to stand outside in the rain, even though it has been quite warm, but this does not bode well for the winter months.

"In five years' time community pubs will be non-existent, all thanks to the smoking ban."

Les (60) has run the pub with his partner Brenda Barry for the last three years and has been in the pub trade for 22 years. The couple called last orders at a farewell party for regulars over the weekend.

Unless the government reviews the ban, Les believes other publicans will lose their homes and livelihoods.

He said: "Surely, the licensee knows how best to run their business. It should be up to each individual landlord or landlady to decide whether smoking is allowed throughout their pub or in designated areas."

A management company has since taken over the temporary running of the pub until a new licencee comes forward.

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