SMOKERS making a New Year's resolution to kick the habit are being offered some expert help.

The North Yorkshire Stop Smoking Service is running a series of group and one-to-one clinics starting next month.

Those who sign-up will get expert help and support, as well as a chance to go through the process with others who are also trying to stop.

Hambleton and Richmondshire Primary Care Trust's director of public health, Dr Phil Kirby, said: "The new year is a time when many smokers who are serious about giving up try to quit the habit. The North Yorkshire Stop Smoking Service group clinics and one-to-one sessions can give people the vital support they need to stop smoking successfully.

"Figures show that people who are supported in trying to give up are much less likely to return to smoking in the future."

The head of the North Yorkshire Stop Smoking Service, Margaret Hewitson, added: "Giving up smoking as a New Year's resolution is the best thing a smoker can do to improve their health, and the health of those around them in 2005. The positive effects of giving up smoking can be felt almost immediately - within a couple of days, carbon monoxide leaves the body and your sense of smell and taste will begin to improve, and you'll have more energy.

"There are, of course, many long-term benefits too, such as decreased risk of heart disease or lung cancer."

Anyone interested in taking part can contact the team on (01904) 663310.

A number of events encouraging people to give up smoking are being held in the first week in January in towns across the county.