Campaigners in Bradford have welcomed the results of the first regional poll to show overwhelming support for a total ban on smoking in public places.

The survey by canvassing firm YouGov was commissioned by Cancer Research UK and Action on Smoking and Health (ASH).

YouGov polled people living in the Yorkshire and Humber region asking if they would support legislation to ban smoking in all workplaces, including pubs and restaurants.

And 65 per cent said yes, making the poll the first to show a majority in favour of smoke-free pubs.

The news comes as MPs prepare for a free vote on the issue during the Commons report stage of the Health Bill. They will vote on an amendment to make all workplaces smoke-free, including pubs and private members' clubs.

The Telegraph & Argus has been campaigning for a total ban on smoking in public places through its Clear the Air campaign.

Madge Boyle, Bradford District Health Develop-ment Partnerships Tobacco Programme manager, said: "We welcome the results of this regional poll.

"This clearly demonstrates the public in this region support a comprehensive smoke-free law that includes pubs and bars.

"MPs should take note of public opinion, not only nationally but also locally and vote to support what the public are asking for."

Cancer Research UK's chief executive, Professor Alex Markham, said: "This poll shows the great majority of people in Yorkshire and Humber back a law to end smoking in all workplaces and enclosed public places, including pubs and bars.

"Some MPs have been worried that the public might not yet be prepared to back comprehensive smoke-free legislation.

"This poll should put their minds at rest. Only a comprehensive law will protect all workers and members of the public from health damage caused by second-hand smoke. And it will encourage many smokers to quit.

"Voting for a smoke-free law without exemptions is the single most important action MPs can take to improve public health. This is a unique opportunity.

"Cancer Research UK strongly urges MPs in Yorkshire and the Humber to attend the report stage of the Health Bill and vote to save lives."

ASH director Deborah Arnott said: "Ending smoking in workplaces would save thousands of lives. This is an important vote for all MPs and we hope this poll will help persuade them to do the right thing."