OLD Town residents are calling Barnsley Hospital a ‘bad neighbour’ after staff and patients who want a cigarette have been forced into the streets by the smoking ban.

Smokers were allowed to use shelters in the hospital grounds until a complete ban came into force on April 1.

Now residents are becoming annoyed that tab ends are left all over the street and people are often seen standing around in their nightwear.

People are also concerned that nurses who stand outside smoking in their uniforms may take germs back into the hospital.

One nearby resident who did not wish to be named said: “Sometimes there are a dozen people sitting on the walls, some with fluffy pink slippers and pyjamas. “This is a nice area and it’s not what you want in a residential area. I think the hospital is a bad neighbour.

“There are dozens and dozens of cigarette butts along Pogmoor Road and Gawber Road and people even leave empty coffee jars by the bus stop after they’ve stood outside having a drink. It’s just not nice any more.

A hospital spokesman said residents were welcome to comment and action could be taken directly.

“We have always acknowledged that becoming a smoke-free environment three months ahead of the government's schedule wouldn't necessarily be a smooth transition. “We have, however, already installed several bins and have started a regular cleaning programme outside the hospital grounds. We are also working with the council to look at other solutions.”

She added that staff are not allowed to smoke while in uniform and could face a formal investigation if they do.