SUPPORT for a smoking ban in Hyndburn’s public play areas, have gained initial public support.

The first of a number of surveys on the topic have shown 80 per cent of parents in the borough are against people lighting up in front of children.

Figures also show that 70 per cent would support a voluntary ban within specific play areas and 64 per cent of parents would support a ban on smoking anywhere in the borough’s public parks.

Hyndburn councillors say a smoking ban in set play areas could be implemented if this show of public support continues.

The council plans to run further surveys and bring final figures to Hyndburn’s cabinet to make a decision within a few months.

Coun Colette McCormack of Hyndburn’s overview and scrutiny committee said the group of watchdog councillors would be analysing the public’s response.

The survey, undertaken by independent consultants, quizzed 181 local parents on their attitudes to smoking in public places around children.

Sixty per cent supported a rule that smoking should take place at least ten metres away from play areas.

Although 43 per cent ‘strongly agreed’ and 21 per cent ‘agreed’ a smoking ban should affect an entire park, Coun McCormack said that would have to be balanced with practical issues.

She said: “We included that question to gauge how strongly people felt about smoking, but we have to consider the effects.

“It would be lovely if no one smoked anywhere but that condition might tempt parents to leave their children alone while they smoke outside the park.

“There’s lots of issues, such as enforcement to consider.

“Whichever measures we put into place, they will need to have lots of public backing to get through.”

Coun Pam Barton, who oversees health issues in the borough said: “I am very keen to see a ban within play parks brought in, as it is just common sense not to smoke in front of children.

"I feel a wider ban on the parks overall would be unworkable though and it’s not necessarily a concern if people are just walking through. Whichever decision the council makes, the public must be fully consulted.”