Smoking Ban is Starting to be Accepted in Bingo Halls
21st December, 2007
The smoking ban in the UK has damaged Bingo halls across the country, but it is starting to appear that players are starting to support the ban.
Bingo players are well renowned for smoking, so it has had a blow on the industry. But players at Strand Bingo in Londonderry has found that the majority of its customers feel the smoke-free premises has enhanced their bingo playing environment.
Strand Bingo carried out a customer survey and found 87% of patrons said the change had been positive.
This bingo hall took an unusual stance on the ban and decided to offer guidance and information on giving up smoking, including gum and patches to help kick the habit.
Customers also raised £1,000 for the Foyle Hospice in the run-up to the smoking ban.
Owner Thomas Doherty said he was "pleasantly surprised" with the result of the survey.
"It is great that our members feel the smoking ban has had a positive effect on their bingo experience.
"We have worked really hard this year to make the transition as easy as possible for our patrons and we will continue to deliver a fantastic bingo experience."
