Landlords around Farnham have urged the government to stub out plans to ban outdoor smoking fearing the “unenforceable” move will turn people away from pubs.

Beer gardens and courtyards have become the last vestige of smokers since 2007 but restrictions could become even tighter given the aims of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

The bill – which would gradually make all smoking illegal by prohibiting the sale of tobacco to people born in January 2009 or later – could mean a ban on smoking in outdoor spaces and on pavements outside clubs, pubs and restaurants.

And that has alarmed the hospitality sector, with people like Harry Standing fearing the “authoritarian” ban will only drive people away from pubs.

“Everyone here is against it and it will probably kill the pub trade,” said the manager of the Nelson Arms on Castle Street.

“It will be difficult to police as part of our outdoor space is on the street. 

“We are more than happy to have smoke-free zones and smoking areas to accommodate all customers. 

“At the moment we are trying not to worry about it as we can’t prepare for it as we don’t know what the law is going to be.”

Ruan Forbes, manager of the William Cobbett, wonders how the ban will be regulated.

He said: “Being a smoker myself, smoking goes hand in hand with pubs.

“I understand why it’s been suggested but enforcing it would be very difficult, especially because there’s already not much of a police presence in town.”

“I understand it from a health point of view but for the pub and hospitality industry it is disastrous,” said Ruan’s counterparts at the Plume of Feathers in Crondall.

“People will just stop going out to pubs if they can buy cheaper alcohol at the supermarket and smoke at home.”