Three taxi drivers have been fined for flouting the smoking ban.

The drivers, two from Exeter and one who lives in Exmouth, were the first people in Exeter to be served with a fixed penalty notice of £50 after police spotted them smoking in their vehicles last month.

The legislation requires them to pay the fine within 28 days or face court action.

Smoking is banned in offices, factories, shops, pubs, bars, membership clubs and work vehicles used by more than one person.

Robert Norley, Exeter City Council's head of environmental health services, said: "This was one of the most significant pieces of public health legislation introduced in almost 50 years.

"Smoke-free has been a great success and has been welcomed by the vast majority of people. The harm from exposure to second-hand smoke is well evidenced and it is the local council's responsibility to enforce the legislation, which ultimately protects people's health.

"Despite all the national and local publicity that took place before the legislation was introduced, and our advisory visits and warnings since, there are still a few people who think they can get away with it.

"A significant percentage are drivers in delivery vehicles and taxis."

The smoke-free law includes all vehicles used for public transport, such as taxis, which should be smoke-free at all times.

The council said this was because tobacco smoke was absorbed into soft furnishings and stayed around for weeks after a cigarette was stubbed out, during which time it released particles hazardous to health.

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