IT is illegal for small shops and retailers in Wales to display cigarettes and tobacco in public from today.

The change in the law means failure to cover up cigarette displays is now a criminal offence.

Large businesses have had to cover their tobacco displays since 2012, but small businesses have been given extra time to prepare for the change in the law.

The new rules will also change the way in which tobacco products must be priced – only three types of price lists and labels for tobacco products are allowed.

The display ban is aimed at reducing the uptake of smoking among young people in particular by removing eye-catching tobacco displays and it has prompted a mixed reaction from Gwent newsagents.

Jon Powell, a kiosk owner on Newport High Street had a case installed for displaying the cigarettes in February ahead of the new legislation.

He said yesterday: “When the photos came in on the front of the packaging, I thought that would be life-changing but within a couple months we had forgotten about it.

“Because we've had the shutters put in pretty early, customers have been a bit confused but it will soon become the norm when everyone else does it.

“I understand why it was brought in, but I’m not sure if it will make a difference.”

Anna Lewis, who works at the 24-hour Avondale Service station in Cwmbran, added: “In my opinion, there are more issues with alcohol yet that’s on display.

“People will continue to ask for a brand and if they have always smoked that brand, they will continue to do so.

"It won’t stop people.”

Lynne Gissard, who works at H Rowlands and Sons in Blackwood, said: “It’s harder for the customers now and a few have asked to see underneath the shutters.

“We’ve had a drop in sales since the smoking ban, but nothing will stop them smoking.

“Most customers know what they want and will get used to it. If they want to smoke, they’ll get them anyway.”

Surveys have consistently shown strong public support for a ban on the display of tobacco products.

A 2010 survey by Cancer Research UK found 73 per cent of people asked supported for the removal of point-of-sale displays.

Health and Social Services Minister Mark Drakeford said: “We have made progress in reducing smoking rates, with the Welsh Health Survey showing 21 per cent of Welsh adults saying they currently smoke.

“Although fewer people smoke than ever, it still causes around 5,450 deaths in Wales each year.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to reduce smoking levels to 16 per cent by 2020.”