It's been claimed the smoking ban in public places could mean the closure of a number of pubs in the Isle of Man, as smokers opt instead for a night in with friends and a few cans or bottles from the off-licence.

But the Minister responsible for implementing the smoke-free legislation says that non-smokers can play their part in keeping pubs at the heart of local communities.

John Shimmin (pictured) says it's not the first time the licensed trade has had to adapt, to suit new legislation: