The countdown has started. On July 1 smokers will become an endangered breed - at least while they are out in public.

New laws means that virtually all enclosed and partially enclosed public places and workplaces will become smoke-free zones.

This includes pubs, bars, restaurants, clubs, offices, factories, shops and most work vehicles that are used by more than one person.

Such a blanket ban may give cause for concern for those in the hospitality trade, but evidence from countries already experiencing the smoke-free laws presents a rosier picture.

Rather than fearing the worst, it seems many local people and businesses are looking forward to the change as an opportunity to attract new custom.

Research into the smoking ban in New York, showed the takings of bars and restaurants increased by almost 9 per cent in the first year of being smoke-free.

And closer to home, when a survey was carried out in Surrey, 58 per cent of people said the new laws would not affect the way they used businesses and 34 per cent said they would use cafés and restaurants more under the new law.

This was backed up by a UK-wide survey by the Office for National Statistics which found 91 per cent wanted smoking restrictions in restaurants, 86 per cent wanted them at work and 65 per cent in pubs.

For the owners of pubs and cafés, it seems the no-smoking law is also something to be welcomed.

The White Horse pub in Dorking Road, Epsom, became smoke-free some months ago to ensure its new decor does not end up a nicotine shade of yellow.

More importantly for landlord Stuart Down however, the new rules mean he is able to run a mother and toddler group in the bar before the pub opens knowing the environment is safe for even the youngest lungs, especially his little boy Billy.

Indeed many premises which have gone smoke-free early have reported increased trade. And in the case of pubs this often comes with an increased emphasis on providing food.

The White Horse reports a 10 per cent increase in food sales while the Rambler's Rest, in Outwood Lane, Chipstead has seen an average increase of 13 per cent .

Similarly, Wayne Woodward, proprietor of The Plough Public House in Gander Green Lane, Sutton, thinks that people in the borough will welcome the ban.

He said: "I am a smoker myself so I understand what's going on with this ban. We've had new decking fitted outside and a new garden to cater for the smokers.

"This was bound to happen, it is happening everywhere else so it was only a matter of time. But, the feedback from our locals is very good.

"They're looking forward to it and personally, it means that I will probably smoke less. I think the ban will improve things as a lot of people don't come into pubs to have food because there are always smokers there. After the ban that won't be a problem."

When it comes to policing the ban, Reigate and Banstead Borough Council is one of the many local authorities determined to make sure everyone knows all they need to know about the changes in the law.

There will be heavy penalties for breaking the anti-smoking laws including fines of up to £1,000 for failure to display no smoking signs, £200 fines for smoking in a non-smoking area and a whopping £2,500 for failing to prevent smoking in a non-smoking area.

Councillor Tom Stoddart, executive member for leisure and healthy living, said: "People have the right to be protected from second-hand smoke and these measures are a significant health initiative which will save lives."

In Sutton, there will be a 12-strong team enforcement team patrolling businesses in the borough to ensure that people adhere to the ban and do not take it lightly. In addition to this a new campaign to help people become smoke-free began earlier this month.

A spokesman said: "The council will host business seminars and workshops; publish guidance packs; promote the new legislation through the web and media; set up a helpline; and issue direct mail shots. We will also have a tobacco advisory group, which includes health professionals, the voluntary sector and hopefully business representatives.

"Promotional events aimed at the public include 'drop-in' sessions in Sutton's high street and promoting smoking cessation at various events across the borough in partnership with Sutton and Merton Primary Care Trust."

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council and the Surrey Primary Care Trust are part of the Smokefree Surrey partnership which aims to steer residents and businesses to the free help that is available to help them prepare for the changes .

Karen Simmonds from Surrey Primary Care Trust, said: "With the new laws coming in on 1 July there is even more reason for people to think about giving up smoking. Smoke free environments will also help those trying to give up.

"It is important to stress through, that the new laws are not about removing people's right to smoke but about protecting non-smokers from the well known health risks of second hand smoke."

So whether you are a 40-a-day addict or a cheeky social smoker, your time's up in Sutton and Epsom. However with the ban still three months away you can either make the most of it or quit while you're ahead. In every sense, the latter may be better in the long run.

For pubs and bars too, the new laws could well be a good thing. The increased health of the public may also mean the increased health of the balance sheet.

Surrey NHS Stop Smoking Service provides free help and advice to people wanting to quit, call 0845 602 3608.

For tips on quitting go to smokefreesurrey.co.uk

People in charge of premises must check that they will comply with the law and it is recommended that they register with www.smokefreeengland. co.uk (0800 169 1697) for advice and for updates.

For more information on Smoke Free Sutton go to sutton.gov.uk.