Venue dodges fine after Stones light up

The O2 Arena in London dodged a fine today after the Rolling Stones lit up on stage despite the smoking ban.

The Stones, on the first night of the UK leg of their world tour, had to be told to stub it out after guitarists Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood performed while smoking.

Cigarette in hand, Keith Richards told the packed crowd in Greenwich, south east London, that “it’s been a long haul” and “it’s good to be back” before taking centre stage for two songs.

Ronnie Wood was also seen puffing on a cigarette during the sell-out concert.

They have been asked not to make this a repeat performance.

A Greenwich Council spokesman said: “We have received no complaints from members of the public. We have reminded the O2 of their obligation to enforce the smoking legislation.

“We are satisfied with the assurances they have provided that this will not recur.

“Since the opening of the O2 we have not received any complaints concerning smoking.”

A spokeswoman for the O2 said: “A band member appeared to have a cigarette however it was extinguished almost faster than the message to put it out got to stage. We are sure it was an oversight and are grateful for their co-operation.

“Along with the rest of the country we take the smoking ban seriously. The Rolling Stones show is a true spectacular, with many visual effects, including dry ice and sophisticated lighting.

From July 1, it has been against the law to smoke in any enclosed or partially enclosed space.

Companies face a fine of up to £2,500 (€3,600) for breaching the ban.

The Stones are rounding off their two-year Bigger Bang world tour with a trio of dates at London’s O2 Arena.