CUSTOMERS at the Morrisons supermarket chain have welcomed a ban on smoking in its cafes.

Morrisons has three stores in Bolton, in Blackhorse Street in the town centre, Mornington Road in Heaton, and in Harwood.

Customers said the move had made a huge difference.

"It's horrible to eat where there is smoke," said Richard Jones, aged 47, from Farnworth.

Heather Klinton, aged 27, from Worsley, said: "It's hard to stop smoke from spreading to a non-smoking area, so it's a good move."

Marianne Jones, cafe controller for the supermarket chain, said: "Withdrawing smoking provision where it had been available was made in response to a shift in customer preferences, indicating a majority in favour of no-smoking cafes."

Deborah Collinson, Bolton public health specialist, said: "We're delighted with this announcement.

"Morrisons are obviously keen to protect the health and well-being of their staff and customers. This is a really positive step."

The move comes just two weeks before MPs vote on whether to introduce a total ban on smoking in public places, including pubs and clubs.