TO ban smoking in public places would be the ruling of a "nanny state" according to smokers and pro-smoking lobbyists.

They feel a complete ban in Blackburn with Darwen would be unnecessary, extreme and even an affront to their human rights.

They said enough has been done already to divide smokers and non-smokers in Blackburn and Darwen and that further legislation is not needed.

Blackburn man Ian Bagley, 39, was enjoying an afternoon cigarette in The Adelphi pub in Railway Road.

He is very much against a total ban being created in Blackburn's public places, although he is aware that adults have a right to protect children from their smoke.

"I think people should be able to smoke where they want and when they want," he said.

Ian, of Accrington Road, added: "If it affects the bar staff then they should not get jobs in a pub.

"But smoking should not be allowed where there is kids."

And Ian's views are backed up by pro-smoking lobbyists from the Freedom Organisation for the Right to Enjoy Smoking Tobacco (FOREST).

Simon Clark, of FOREST, said: "Our viewpoint is that a complete ban is unnecessary and extreme.

"An awful lot of work has been done to improve the atmosphere of public places in Blackburn with Darwen with separate areas and improved ventilation.

"A ban risks alienating a third of the population.

"We are pro-choice and a ban by a nanny state removes any choice."