A taxi driver has become the second person in Clackmannanshire to be fined for breaking the smoking ban.
The man was alone in his taxi when he was caught by Health Protection Officers from Clackmannanshire Council carrying out routine inspections.

He was issued with a £50 fixed penalty notice.

Earlier this month, a shopkeeper in Alloa became the first person in the county to be fined for breaking in the ban on smoking.

Andrew Crawford, the council's environmental health team leader, said: "I am very disappointed that it has been necessary to issue another ticket when our health protection officers have worked so hard to ensure that everyone knows what is required.

  It is essential that smokers realise an aspect of the smoking ban is to protect non-smokers from the effects of tobacco

"No-one can be complacent about the ban and everyone must comply or face similar action when the law is blatantly disregarded."

Mr Crawford added that the council would be focussing its attention on works' vehicles, including taxis, during the month of May.

"Smoking by employees using works' vehicles appears to be a problem across Scotland and we will not shy away from taking action against it," he said.

"It is essential that smokers realise an aspect of the smoking ban is to protect non-smokers from the effects of tobacco.

"I hope that everyone heeds the warning this latest case gives out."

A recent survey of publicans, staff and customers carried out by the council's environmental team in 40 pubs and hotels in Clackmannanshire showed that 93% felt the smoking ban was successful.

A further 95% had experienced no problems with customers and all of the publicans questioned believed the ban was accepted by their customers.

 http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/tayside_and_central/6611049.stm