IT is already illegal in Ireland and New York - and a Gwent council has now banned smoking from the bars in all their leisure centres.

From November 1, smoking will not be allowed in any part of Torfaen's leisure centres - bars and cafs included. Now other Gwent councils could follow the move.

Smokers visiting Cwmbran Stadium or leisure centres in Pontypool, Blaenavon or Fairwater will have to go to a designated area outside to enjoy their cigarettes.

Chris Jenkins, health and fitness co-ordinator for Torfaen, works at Cwmbran Stadium. She said: "Smoking was banned in the caf about 12 months ago, and now we're banning it in every area of the leisure centre - for staff as well.

"I think it's a good idea because I'm a non-smoker, but I don't think anyone's too worried.

"Some are asking where they're going to be able to smoke and there is a designated area.

"It has been proven that smoking causes bad health and medical problems, and not just for the smokers, but those around them - so it's the way to go."

A spokesman for Torfaen council said: "We have decided to ban smoking in all areas of our four leisure centres from November 1.

"Smoking is already banned in other council buildings. The council promotes a health and well-being message, and by allowing smoking in leisure centres it seemed to contradict this.

"We think this ban will reduce the risk to our staff from passive smoking and also encourage staff and customers who want to give up."

The only exception to the ban is when function rooms are booked for private parties, where a smoking area will be set up to separate smokers and non-smokers.

Other Gwent councils may be set to follow the move. A spokesman for Monmouthshire council said: "The council has just gone into a two-week consultation period with patrons of the leisure centres. The decision about a smoking ban in the centres will be made based on the results of this."

A spokesman for Blaenau Gwent council said: "There is a no-smoking policy throughout all Blaenau Gwent sports centres except for certain designated areas in the public bar."

Nobody at Newport council was available for comment.