An Oxford pub landlord is stubbing out his cigarettes four months before the official smoking ban - and challenging customers to put an end to the habit.

Tom O'Sullivan, who runs the Butchers Arms, in Wilberforce Street, Headington, banned smoking at his pub on Thursday.

Mr O'Sullivan, who took over the pub last year, smoked 40 or 50 a day for 25 years, but has been gradually cutting down.

He said: "It will help a lot of the customers to give up smoking too, and people have mostly been very supportive.

"I would say 95 per cent of the people who come into the pub don't smoke, so I said I'd get ahead of the game.

"A lot of people won't go into pubs, because of the smoke. I want to serve more food, and it should create a better environment for that."

Some customers have lent their support to the early ban, with promises that they will visit the pub more.

Regular Alf Collier, 74, who lives opposite in Wilberforce Street, said: "It's got to happen and people should accept it.

"I've given up smoking. My wife has to avoid smoke for her health. Now there's a ban I'm sure we'll be down there more often.

"Lots of people have been saying that they might as well pack it in if they are going to be forced to smoke in the street."

But others have said they will be going to another pub for the next four months rather than leave their cigarettes behind.

Richard Jarvis, 31, of Ramsay Road, Headington, said: "The right place for smokers is down their local pub.

"I have to be honest that if I have the choice of a non-smoking pub and one that allows smoking I'll be going where I can light up. Most of my mates will too."

The Butchers Arms, which has been serving beer in Headington since 1869, has won awards from the Campaign for Real Ale, including best pub in Oxford in 1999.

In west Oxfordshire, businesses are being encouraged to think about going smoke-free ahead of the official ban coming into force on July 1. Free seminars about the new legislation are being held on Tuesday, at Chipping Norton Town Hall, and Friday, at Lang- dale Hall, Witney.

To book a place call 01865 226663.