NEXT summer's smoking ban will mean the end of the old-fashioned boozer, according to several Malvern publicans.

David Rudd, licensee of the Foresters Arms, believes the ban passed by the Government this week could spell the end for his pub.

His partner, Brenda Ellis, agrees: "They've taken away the freedom of choice I thought we had in this country. To be honest, it will kill these little pubs," she said.

The Foresters, in Wilton Road, does not serve food and relies on custom from darts, cribbage and pool leagues, where 90 per cent of team members smoke.

"If you take that away from us, you take away our livelihood," said Ms Ellis.

Steve Newson, landlord of the Beauchamp Arms in Malvern Link, said having no outside space for smokers could cost it dearly.

"I'll have to wait and see the effects of the Nanny State," he said.

At The Express Inn, Quest Hills Road, landlord Andy Mapp plans to introduce an outside area for smokers.

Although he is prepared to make changes, he is apprehensive about the new legislation.

"Introducing outside smoking will cause more problems. I'll be chasing them after closing time," he said.

Like Mr Rudd, Mr Mapp believes the ban will kill off the traditional British pub, as smokers will stay home and drink.

He said he couldn't understand why the Government brought in the ban, after introducing 24-hour licensing.

However, not everyone is negative.

Priors Croft restaurant and bar opened in Grange Road in December as a non-smoking establishment.

"It allows a more family orientated atmosphere with cleaner standards," said owner Jon Rowe.

Michael Cavilla, of the Foley Arms, Belle Vue Terrace, believes the smoking ban is the way forward.

Its bar and restaurant were refurbished last year with non-smokers in mind.

The Nag's Head in Bank Street has a small area for smokers alongside the bar but the dining area is strictly non-smoking.

Proprietor Duncan Ironmonger feels more secure with the Government introducing the legalisation.

"It gives a sense of shared boundaries to pub owners," he said, adding he would be making provision for smokers on the patio outside.