SMOKING should be banned in outdoor play areas in Bolton — but the ruling would not apply to public parks “because it would be impossible to enforce”, town hall chiefs have said.

Bolton Council bosses spoke out on the issue after proposals to ban smoking in parks were put forward by health experts.

Council leader Cllr Cliff Morris said the ban could never be enforced across all green spaces and parks because of logistical and financial hurdles.

But he said he would welcome a ban in playgrounds. Cllr Morris said: “I don’t think it would be feasible to enforce in Bolton from a logistical point of view — as well as financial. However I think we should consider it for the children’s play areas.”

The leader was backed p by Cllr Sufrana Ismail. The council's cabinet member for community services said: “My view is that smoking should be banned in purpose built play areas for children.

“There are a lot of parents who don’t allow smoking in their home so I’m sure they are not happy about people smoking in play areas around their children.

“As for banning it across all parks, we don’t have a policy in place.”

Former health minister Lord Darzi called for the ban in London. The idea — which is expected to be taken up by London Mayor Boris Johnson — would make 40 per cent of the capital smoke-free.

The scheme got a mixed response from people in Moses Gate Country Park in Bolton. Fred Longmire, aged 64, from Harwood, said: “I don’t think you can ban people from smoking everywhere.

“Provided they smoke responsibly in parks and not near areas where children will play, I think people should be allowed.”

Janette Longmire, aged 54, also from Harwood, added: “I think people should be allowed to smoke as long it’s away from children’s play areas. I’m a child minder I don’t like it when people smoke near picnic benches or play grounds.”

Former smoker Christine Hodgen, aged 66, from Stoneclough, said: “If people don’t like it, they can always move away because it’s a large public place.”

Graham Hodgen, aged 65, from Stoneclough, said: “If we are all out in the open air, I don’t think it should be outlawed.”

Mum Laura Turner, aged 22 from Halliwell, said: “You should be able to smoke outside.

“I think people drinking in parks are more of a problem.”

Allan Brooks, aged 67 from Farnworth, said: “They are hitting smokers too hard but I agree with banning it in play areas.”