The cafe went smoke-free on 28thApril 2005.

"My daughter and I have always suffered from asthma and earlier this year we were both admitted to hospital with acute asthma symptoms, which I believe were brought on by spending prolonged periods of time in a smoky environment."

"The Grapevine has always been very popular and attracted all types of customers, both smoking and non-smoking, but in the mornings the cafe was often dominated by smokers and the smoke would linger on in the room for the rest of the day. It would get everywhere, even into the cupboard where we left our coats. At the end of a shift you?d go home and smell of smoke from head to toe, your hair, your clothes, everything."

"What's more, I knew my asthma was gradually getting worse and I used to get all tense whenever I saw a customer light up. The thing is, I?m not anti-smoking, infact I used to be a smoker myself, but I do feel there is a time and a place for everything and I just think that in an enclosed space where people are working all day, and other customers are eating, it?s inappropriate.

"We do have outside seating for smokers, so when the weather is nice they still have the choice."

"The response from customers has been very good, we've had no loss of trade and infact, it has actually increased as old customers have come back to us and new customers have arrived now that they know they can eat smoke-free. In particular, kids love it here and we are attracting more families and selling more food than ever before! "


"All in all, becoming a smoke-free venue was a great move for us, not only are the staff and customers happier, but our profits have increased too. What?s more, it's great to be able to lead the way in supporting this worthwhile campaign in our local area", concluded Short.