Workers in the hospitality and catering industry have been abused by angry smokers in the wake of the national smoking ban, a new poll has discovered.
The study by Caterer.com found that ten per cent of staff in the industry have been the victim of violence or threats when they have told customers to stop smoking, onrec.com reports.
Furthermore, 16 per cent of respondents noted a drop in revenue after the smoking ban came into force and 32 per cent said they thought their business could be under threat.
Laurence Owen of Caterer.com described the level of violence as "shocking".
"The introduction of the smoking ban has been particularly tough for hospitality workers," he said.
However, on the upside the poll found 80 per cent of hospitality workers are now happier in their work and 79 per cent feel healthier.
According to recent figures, cigarette sales have fallen by 11.6 per cent since the smoking ban was implemented.
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