A BUSINESS that makes all-weather shelters is hoping the impending smoking ban will help fuel its plans for expansion.

Smoke and Weather Shelters UK was launched in the North-East in 2005, after founder Bill Harris realised the level of concern about passive smoking and saw a gap in the market.

Mr Harris is expecting a boom in the popularity of his products, as companies clamour to order outdoor shelters to enable their employees to continue smoking.

After putting together his initial designs two years ago, Mr Harris approached the North-East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC), which supported him.

David Howell, director of operations at BIC, said: "In the context of current national developments, I think that Bill's product is extremely flexible and will be invaluable to businesses over the coming months."