Legislation that bans cigarette vending machines from pubs, clubs and restaurants in England has come into effect on 1 October.

The Department of Health brought the rule in to prevent young people from getting hold of cigarettes, saying underage smoker are more likely to buy tobacco from vending machines than the population as a whole.
Violators face a fine of GBP 2,500 (EUR 2,876).
Sinclair Collis, which owns 20,000 machines, had fought to prevent the ban saying the move would wipe out a GBP 400 million industry and cost 550 jobs. The company argued that the Department of Health action went against EU free trade rules and the company's right to use its property.
The regulations are due to come into force in Wales on 1 February 2012. (pi)