EIGHT council workers have stopped smoking with the help of a cessation programme organised by their employer.

The programme is part of Easington District Council's aim to improve the health of its workforce.

It has been run in partnership with the Health Development Service for Easington and Sedgefield, which is part of the Easington and Sedgefield primary care trusts.

The health development service, which helped to organise and run the programme, is working with the council on a range of issues as part of Working for Health in County Durham award scheme.

As well as reducing the risks of health problems such as cancer, strokes and heart disease, the council hopes the programme will reduce the incidence of respiratory problems, including bronchitis.

Project advisor Lynne Willis said: "Those members of the group who successfully stopped smoking were obviously very delighted with their achievement. Some had been smokers for more than 30 years. Going through an attempt to quit smoking with work colleagues can often supply a valuable boost of extra support."

Any workplace, large or small, in the Easington and Sedgefield areas can arrange a Quit Smoking Group by contacting Ms Willis on 0191-586 6681.