NHS administrators have a problem when banning smoking on hospital grounds.

They can put up signs and CCTV cameras. They can employ people to patrol the grounds and ask people to stub out their cigarettes. They can even escort them from the premises.

But they can't prosecute them.

Well, I've just been tipped off that an NHS Trust wants the local council to introduce a by-law so it can do exactly that.

Yes, folks, with all the problems facing the National Health Service, officials are busy "negotiating" with their local council so they can fine/penalise anyone who so much as lights a cigarette in the open air.

Perhaps they'll name and shame them too.

I've made Forest's feelings very clear ...