Smokers who enjoy a drink are set for their biggest challenge yet with winter weather set to see them shivering outdoors.

But one pub boss is upbeat about the effects of the ban on trade and is looking forward to a good festive period.

Ian Marchant, regional operations director for Punch Taverns, which owns about 90 pubs in Oxfordshire, said: "So far business has been relatively positive and we have seen different types of customers coming in.

"The focus is about providing the best possible service and products and we have not seen a great deal of impact."

The Government deliberately introduced the ban in July which has given smokers an extended 'honeymoon period' as they have been able to take advantage of warmer weather to light up outside.

But with temperatures dropping and the nights drawing in, the pub industry has expressed fears that some people will stay away rather than be forced to brave the elements.

However, Mr Marchant added: "We had poor summer weather and it is difficult to discern any difference.

"We are seeing more and more people eating out in pubs and there is a shift to drinks such as wine. It will hopefully be a good Christmas driven by people's need to go out and have fun."

Mr Marchant added that extending opening hours 18 months ago had been another positive step.

He said: "It is more flexible for customers and licensees and there are fewer problems."

Punch Taverns unveiled pre-tax profits of £282m for the year ended August 18, up 13 per cent on 2006.