STAFF at Tavistock's Pannier Market may be banned from smoking on site, after a decision was made at a council meeting to address smoking issues raised by East End Stores shop owners.

Members of the town council's properties committee made the recommendation at a meeting last week, following issues raised about smokers congregating at the far end of the market, near the East End stores.

Cllr Harry Smith said: 'This particular area has become an unofficial meeting place where smokers gather, and its not just one or two — it's quite a substantial amount.

'People may well be put off walking in that direction if they see people smoking there.'

Councillors discussed the possibility of enforcing a blanket ban over the market area but were worried it would affect the nearby cafés.

Cllr Philip Sanders said: 'You can't stop people generally smoking in the street but I understand why people have this issue.

'It's not just one smoker but a collection of smokers and we should do something about it.'

Cllr Brian Trew suggested banning staff from smoking on the market site.

'That way we are making an effort to do something about the issue and just see how it pans out,' he said.

The vote was carried and the decision was due to be ratified at the full council meeting on Tuesday night.

Councillors also agreed to look at a long-term solution for the problem.