THOUSANDS of people have succeeded in kicking the tobacco habit since the smoking ban came into force two years ago.

NHS North Yorkshire and York’s Stop Smoking Service has helped a total of 7,611 people successfully quit since July 1, 2007.

Service co-ordinator Margaret Hewitson said: "Stopping smoking is the single most helpful thing you can do improve your current and future health.

"Smoking causes serious health problems including lung cancer and heart disease, and it puts the people around you at risk from second-hand smoke."

She added: "Smokers are four times more likely to go smoke-free using local NHS stop smoking support. We offer a range of support including group and one-to-one sessions, drop-in clinics and support for pregnant women who smoke."

Anyone in North Yorkshire and York can contact the service by calling 0845 877 0025.

Smokers can also access support in local pharmacies across North Yorkshire and York. For more information about which pharmacies offer this service visit www.northyorkshireandyorknhs.uk