Smoking banned outside Leeds General Infirmary and St James's Hospital

People will no longer be able to smoke anywhere on the hospital grounds, including the outdoor areas.

The new rules will be implemented at LGI, St James's, Chapel Allerton Hospital, Leeds Children's Hospital, Leeds Dental Institute, Seacroft Hospital and Wharfedale Hospital.

They are in effect as of Tuesday, September 1.

The move is said to be for health reasons.

People have been urged not to "be rude" to staff when asked not to smoke on hospital grounds.

A spokesman for Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said: "We are Smoke Free LTHT!

"From today, smoking is not permitted on any of our hospital sites - both inside and outside.

"Please do not be rude to our staff if they ask you not to smoke on our hospital grounds.

"They do it because they care and we’re trying to maintain an environment that is supportive of everyone’s health."

The smoking ban in England came into force in July 2007.

This made it illegal to smoke in all enclosed work spaces.

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Thank you

Laura Collins