A smoke-free' co-ordinator has been appointed to ensure businesses in Croydon are ready to cope with the pending smoking ban, which will take effect in just over a month.

From July 1 it will be illegal for anyone to smoke in an enclosed public space or workplace including bars, restaurants and offices.

Croydon Council will be responsible for enforcing the smoking ban and anyone caught lighting up in a banned area faces a £50 penalty charge or a £200 court fine, while the owner or manager of the premises could be liable for a fine of up to £2,500.

Councillor Steve O'Connell, joint deputy leader and cabinet member for public protection and crime reduction, said: "The clock is now ticking and we are doing all we can to help everyone in Croydon prepare for 1 July.

"The ban will mean a few changes for the way many businesses and organisations operate but we don't intend to take a hard line approach. We want to ensure everyone understands their responsibilities."