A NEW scheme to promote smoke-free eating and drinking in Hampshire is giving customers a chance to make their views known.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Smoke Free Eating and Drinking Award Scheme is giving out 'calling cards' for people to use after their meal out. These cards are available from local council offices, libraries and doctors' surgeries and can be handed to landlords after a meal.

One card says 'Thank you for being smoke-free. It made my meal even more enjoyable.' Others, to be used in pubs and restaurants where smoking is allowed, say 'Thank you for a lovely meal. It would have been even more enjoyable if it had been smoke-free.'

The award scheme is run by Smoke Free Hampshire and Isle of Wight, an alliance between the NHS and local authorities to cut the impact of tobacco. Landlords or managers who would like to join the scheme should contact Jill Wilson on 01962 863511 or log on to www.smokefreehampshire.co.uk.