A Government ban on tobacco advertising comes into effect from Friday (April 6), in an effort to cut down smoking rates in parts of the UK, particularly amongst the young.

All large shops and supermarkets in England must now cover tobacco products from public view, with smaller outlets being given three more years to adapt to the new legislation.

The Department of Health said the move was in response to evidence that cigarette displays in shops can encourage young people to take up the habit.

Over 300,000 children under 16 smoke each year and five per cent of children aged 11 to 15 are regular smokers, according to its figures. In addition, 39 per cent of smokers say they began before the age of 16.

Health Minister Anne Milton said: "We cannot ignore the fact that young people are recruited into smoking by colourful, eye-catching, cigarette displays.

"Most adult smokers started smoking as teenagers and we need to stop this trend.

"Banning displays of cigarettes and tobacco will help young people resist the pressure to start smoking and help the thousands of adults in England who are currently trying to quit."

Any stores found to be breaking the new legislation face a fine of up to £5,000, or even a prison sentence.