Security is being stepped up at a city Court to cope with an expected backlash from fuming smokers.

For years the cafeteria at Bradford magistrates court has been the only part of the building where smokers can light up.

Now the whole premises are to become a smoke-free zone, bringing them in line with similar buildings in West Yorkshire.

But the smoking ban, which comes into force from tomorrow, has already brought a mixed response from court users. And extra security staff will be on duty in its early stages.

One non-smoking lawyer said problems could arise if cases were called when their clients were outside the building, having a smoke.

"The ushers are going to have a busy time, rushing around trying to find defendants and witnesses,'' he added.

"Personally, I am in favour of a total ban, because after spending ten minutes having a cup of tea in the cafeteria you can come out smelling as if you have smoked for a month.

"However, some people are understandably nervous about having to appear in court and if they are smokers -- and if it takes a long time to call the case on -- they may feel the need to go outside and light up.''

Another lawyer said it seemed strange that the court provided special containers for users of illegal drugs to dispose of their hypodermic needles, while at the same time clamping down on something that was not against the law.

Some solicitors are even considering whether the ban might be unlawful under the Human Rights Act.

In a statement, the West Yorkshire Magistrates Courts Service said it recognised that the health, safety and welfare of employees, magistrates and other persons on its premises was its primary responsibility. The decision to impose a total ban in Bradford was consistent with its consolidated health and safety policy.

Bradford was the only remaining magistrates court building in the county that allowed smoking in its public areas, it added.