A RESTAURANT is encouraging others to follow its example by promoting smoke-free places to eat in the North-East.

Maxine's, at the New Grange Hotel, Darlington, is the only non-smoking restaurant in town.

Hotel owner, Duncan Bannatyne, believes the issue needs to be addressed.

UK legislation only bans smoking in public places for reasons of safety or hygiene, not on health grounds.

The public places charter in Britain has drawn up acceptable codes of practice which makes provision for non-smokers in the hospitality industry.

Mr Bannatyne said: "It has been proven that passive smoking can cause serious illness which can be avoided, and the New Grange Hotel wants diners to feel comfortable and relaxed in the smokeless environment which we have created. Increasing numbers of people are looking for smoke-free environments to socialise."