I understand that the smoking ban here in Scotland started in the spring, as in many other areas, so that smokers could get used to the idea of being outside in the better weather!

Judging by the hardy souls outside our local folk pub over the past two weeks of gales, some smokers are hard to discourage, but a number of friends and colleagues have confirmed changes in their level of smoking.

As a singer, it's great to be able to perform for an evening in a smke-free environment.