THE GUARDIAN: Smokers bemoaning the new ban on lighting up in pubs and other indoor public spaces in England have a new sanctuary: Stoke-on-Trent.
The Staffordshire city has acquired a sudden popularity among tobacco aficionados after a bureaucratic mix-up left its council unable to enforce the July 1 smoking ban.
Until this is rectified - August at the earliest - smokers can enjoy their habit in Stoke's pubs and clubs, not to mention bus shelters and other enclosed spaces, without the risk of a £50 fine. City’s smokers escape ban after council mix-up (more) By Peter Walker and agencies
Mark Alexander
