IT'S been a topic of debate for months, but in just 50 days the ban on smoking in enclosed public places will become a reality.

As of 6am on Sunday, July 1 it will be illegal to smoke in bars, clubs, restaurants, workplaces, on public transport and even in some company vehicles.

Today sees the launch of the Dorset Echo's Make a Fresh Start campaign, a 50-day countdown to the big day which will cover all aspects of the new legislation.

We will be looking at why the ban is being introduced and the benefits of making Britain smoke-free, as well as the implications on companies, public transport operators, bar and club owners as well as individuals.

Our series of features will fully explain the new laws, making sure you are clear on where you can and can't smoke, and what the penalties are.

We will also look at what is being done to help people kick the habit and every day featuring a successful quitter, along with tips and advice from health experts on how you can give up smoking.

According to Smokefree England, the legislation will 'ensure a healthier environment, so everyone can socialise, relax, travel, shop and work free from second-hand smoke'.

Smokefree legislation is set out in Part 1 of the Health Act, which was passed by Parliament in 2006 and will see virtually all enclosed and substantially enclosed public spaces and workplaces in the country being smoke-free.

This will include all offices, factories, bars, restaurants, pubs, public transport and work vehicles. Indoor smoking rooms will no longer be permitted.

Businesses will be legally required to display signs at the entrances to premises and on vehicles used for work premises by more than one person. Outside shelters should also meet specific legal requirements and premises will have to take into account the potential noise nuisance from users to any nearby properties. Planning permission may also be needed.

Individuals caught smoking in smokefree premises or a smoke-free vehicle can face a fixed penalty fine of £5 or a fine by a court of up to £200.

Failure to display no smoking signs in smoke-free premises and vehicles as required by the new law means a fixed penalty of £200, or a court fine of up to £1,000.

Failing to prevent smoking in a smoke-free building or vehicle can result in a court fine of up to £2,500.

The aims of the ban, according to Smokefree England, are to:

  • Recognise a person's right to be protected from the harm of second-hand smoke and to breathe smoke-free air.
  • Help people trying to give up smoking by providing supportive smoke-free environments.
  • Reduce illness and the number of deaths from medical conditions caused by second-hand smoke.
  • Improve life expectancy because less people will take up smoking in the first place.

The full impact of the new legislation remains to be seen, but our 50-day countdown will cover every aspect of the new law in the run-up to its introduction.

However, we also want to hear from you. Log on to www.dorsetecho.co.uk to record your views and make a Fresh Start.