SMOKING is not illegal, but there is a time and a place for everything.

It is perfectly reasonable and logical to suggest that one place where people should not smoke is outside the public entrance to a hospital.

Smoking is already banned in hospital grounds but the problem is that it is not against the law, and the ban has not been properly and effectively enforced.

It is good news that NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde are now to take a tougher approach, following guidance from the Health Secretary and will enforce the ban on their various sites.

It is, however, sad that resources which could be otherwise better spent on patient care are having to be diverted to tackle something which should be so obviously unacceptable that no-one should consider doing it.

We know from our campaigns like Glas-goals and Clear The Air that many smokers want to quit and are seeking the help that is available to do so.

By ensuring our hospital grounds and entrances are smoke free is another signal that we all want to live in a cleaner and healthier city.

While people who choose to smoke – whether they want to quit or not – should be free to do so, there are some places where they just shouldn't be lighting up.