Churches told to put up No Smoking signs

Health chiefs are spending thousands of pounds ordering churches to put up signs banning smoking.

The decision has left religious leaders bemused because, they say, no one smokes in places of worship anyway.



A smoking ban in all enclosed public places comes into effect in England in July and in Wales from April but Church figures assumed that although they would be covered by the legislation there would be no need for signs.

The Department of Health said: "Churches will be included in the ban as they are enclosed public spaces. Signs will be prominently displayed at all entrances."