THEY have been forced out of pubs, restaurants and public spaces due to concerns over health risks associated with their habit.
But smokers can now light up a celebratory cigar after the relaunch of a long-established tobacconist in Cheltenham.
Tobacco World, which was previously based in the Regent Arcade for the past 23 years, has relocated to a new base in the Beechwood Shopping Centre.
It has also given itself a new name – John Hollingsworth – after its previous moniker fell out of favour with advertisers.
John Withers, owner and managing director, insisted the business was still viable despite the continued concerns associated with smoking.
"We are here to supply our customers," said the 65-year-old, who is himself a smoker.
"The demand is out there and we are there to meet that demand.
"I think Cheltenham is lucky to have a specialist tobacconist in the town as there aren't many left outside of London.
"We are a traditional gentleman's tobacconist and we will be selling pipes, lighters and all the types of tobacco we did at our previous premises."
After reopening at its new home, the shop will continue to stock cigars, cigarettes and loose tobacco as well as items for the "gentleman smoker" such as walking sticks and hip flasks. It is thought to be one of between only 40 and 50 specialist tobacconists left throughout the UK.
The move came after TK Maxx announced plans to expand its Regent Arcade store, taking over the space formerly occupied by Tobacco World.
The Withers family has been in the trade since 1920 but the Hollingsworth name goes back to 1843.
Mr Withers said he was delighted with the store's new premises, and hoped to be based there for many years to come.
"I'm really pleased with it and the cooperation of everyone at the Beechwood Shopping Centre has been fantastic," he added.
"Business is going well and we have high hopes that will continue.
"Increasingly supermarkets are dropping such products or very much reducing their range. So, rather than being squeezed by the supermarkets, their actions are actually benefiting us."
