A TOWN'S campaign to reduce smoking-related illnesses and deaths has received a boost after winning the support of a major leisure attraction.

The Warner Village Cinema, in Hartlepool Marina, is the latest business to sign up to the Action on Smoking Awards, an initiative that aims to promote smoke-free public places.

The scheme, which is administered jointly by Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Primary Care Trust's health development team, has been running in the town for ten years.

More than 120 local businesses, organisations and council premises have joined the campaign.

A no-smoking policy applies throughout the cinema and general manager Iain Reynolds said: "The majority of our customers are children and families. The last thing they want is to be forced to breathe in other people's fumes when they come out to enjoy themselves."

Emma Tierney, the council's health development officer, said: "We are delighted the cinema, which attracts thousands of customers, is backing the drive to protect local people from the effects of smoking."

Organisations and businesses which have smoke-free public areas can apply for an Action on Smoking certificate.

Further information is available by contacting the council, on (01429) 523587, or Hartlepool Primary Care Trust on (01429) 231248.