Smoking provision will be made outside the building

The ban will be introduced at the Customs House, in South Shields, as soon as outdoor ashtrays and appropriate signs can be installed.

Managers at the theatre say they hope the ban can be introduced in time to coincide with the start of the school holidays.

The decision on Tuesday follows a vote by staff in favour of the ban.

'Blanket ban'

It comes after the venue's director Ray Spencer received complaints from customers and staff.

It runs a no smoking policy in its theatre and cinema but people were able to smoke in the bar area.

Mr Spencer, who took over the running of the Customs House in January 2000, said: "The Customs House prides itself on being a family friendly venue but we are also conscious that social smoking is a big part of a night out and adds to someone's entertainment.

"However, after much debate, the board of directors agreed with the blanket ban largely because of the health and safety implications to our staff and customers as well as the comfort of our visitors who don't smoke."

Mr Spencer said he will be making provision for smokers outside the building.