September 8, 2004

Breath of fresh air for pub goers

When you’re told that your much loved career is putting your health in jeopardy you have to make a tough decision.

And that’s just what Denise Parkin, landlady of The King William in Wilmslow, was faced with when her doctor told her that the pub’s smokey atmosphere was seriously damaging her health.

Denise and her husband Billy, both former smokers, have run the popular Manchester Road pub for more than seven years and didn’t want to leave, so instead they banished smoke from the venue three months ago. Those who wish to smoke can now do so in a marquee outside.

“Within two days the painful cough I had put up with for years almost vanished. I feel so much better now,” explained Denise.

“Being smoke free will not only benefit myself, but our staff and regulars. We have also attracted new customers who are keen to eat and drink in a smoke free environment.”

In response to this move, Denise and Billy will be awarded with a SilverClean Air Award by Tina Williams, National Clean Air Award Manager, on September 10 at 2pm.

Launched by The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, the national award scheme aims to:

• dramatically increase the provision of smoke free places
• protect against exposure to second-hand smoke
• help smokers quit
• recognise and reward organisations which have smoke-free policies.

Tina said: “There is a growing demand for smoke-free places to stay, eat, drink and enjoy leisure time. More than 70% of people are non-smokers and we know that many of them avoid a place where smoking is allowed - which provides a massive untapped customer base for the hospitality industry.

“I am delighted that by making the pub smoke free Denise has been able to continue the job she loves. Evidence shows that one hospitality worker dies each week in the UK as a result of workplace exposure to second hand tobacco smoke, making this type of work more hazardous than being either a fire or police officer. In the 21 st century no on should be asked to put their life at unnecessary risk just earning a living.”

Martin Dockrell of Asthma UK said: "Second hand smoke not only triggers an asthma attack among people with asthma but can cause asthma in previously healthy people.

“Bar owners in New York and Dublin have shown us that smoke free bars are good for business and we are delighted that the King William is taking a lead

locally. Let's hope it isn't too long until we all have the same chance of a smoke free pint as the regulars at the William."

Mike Bridges, Principal Health Promotion Advisor for Eastern Cheshire Primary Care Trust, said: “Denise and Billy have taken a brave decision to

be the first pub in the area to go smoke free.

“However, much more work needs to be done locally and nationally to protect workers in the hospitality industry and members of the public from the harmful effects of environmental tobacco smoke. It is not a matter of choice, but the right of all employees to work in a smoke free environment.”

Ian Gray, Policy officer Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, said: “Denise and Billy are not only looking after their own health, but are also providing a healthy and attractive environment in which their customers can wine and dine. There is a growing demand for smoke free entertainment venues and so we wish them every success.”

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