From next summer, all employers must ensure their workplaces are smoke-free - and they should start talking to staff about the issue now, according to north east lawyers Dickinson Dees.

Employment lawyer Claire-Jane Nicol told The Northern Echo: "

We are strongly advising our clients to act now in advance of this. Employers should have an awareness of their legal position and filter this through to their workforce.

"Training is vital to protect against costly claims for failing to provide a safe working environment."