Ipswich Primary Care Trust wants to debate a smoking ban

Ipswich could lead the way as the region's first town to ban smoking in pubs, clubs and restaurants if the proposal by Ipswich Primary Care Trust (PCT) gets enough support.

The PCT wants to debate the idea of increasing smoke-free zones around the town to help prevent illnesses caused by smoking and passive smoking.

Healthcare officials will be meeting with businesses and property owners to determine if there is a consensus towards smoke-free areas.

Pub fears

However, despite a smoking ban being brought in to Ireland's public places next year and a ban already in place in New York, Ipswich residents are unsure if the ban would be welcomed or work.

Ken Searle, a shop owner in Ipswich, told BBC Look East he thought the proposals would have no place in a pub.

"In a pub if someone wants to enjoy a pint and I think he should be allowed to have a cigarette with it.

"In my own shop I only smoke in the back room and don't smoke on the shop floor because that's not good for customers."

'Unworkable' ban

Fellow Ipswich resident Sue Bates added: "I don't really see it working down here.

"I understand the ethics behind what they are trying to do because they are concerned about public health and the amount smoking costs the NHS.