One of the region's most luxurious hotels will become a smoke-free zone from the beginning of next month.

The complete ban will mean there will be no smoking in any part of Seaham Hall Hotel or its adjoining Serenity Spa.

It was following the no smoking success stories in Irish and Scottish pubs, restaurants and hotels that Tom's companies, the North East-based luxury hotel and restaurant firm decided to provide a healthier environment for its guests and staff.

The company will also introduce a similar ban at its Cumbrian based hotel The Samling, which was recently voted top hotel at the Excellence England Awards, and the company's two Newcastle restaurants, the Fisherman's Lodge and Treacle Moon.

Chairman of Tom's Companies, Tom Maxfield said: "This is a serious issue. Smoking is a killer and non-smokers must be protected from passive smoking. The Irish Republic, Australia, New York City and the state of Florida have taken the lead and Tom's Companies is proud to join them in declaring all our properties smoke free zones.''

He added: "I know that the majority of our customers will welcome this as a positive step forward.''

The group's commercial director Debrah Dhugga added: "We've been watching with some interest as the smoking bans have come into effect in Ireland and Scotland and the change has been a positive one without any of the side affects that many heralded before it was introduced.

"Our hotels in particular are surrounded by the great outdoors which has of course always been smoke free. We like to lead the field when it comes to bettering our offering for guests and I'm sure it won't be long before other establishments follow.''