SMOKERS are being given an extra reason to quit and possibly save their lives by the Tees and Durham Energy Efficiency Advice Centre.

Next week, anyone who wants to quit the habit will be able to exchange 20 cigarettes for two life-saving carbon monoxide detectors.

Carbon monoxide is an extremely toxic gas that is produced by defective and badly maintained appliances that burn fuel.

Environmental projects officer Mike Chicken said: "A carbon monoxide detector, like packing in cigarettes, could help prevent life threatening situation.

"We're hoping that people wanting to stop smoking will take advantage of this additional incentive to live their lives in a healthy, smoke and gas free environment."

The Alive and Kicking promotion will run from Monday to Friday at the centre in Blue Post Yard in Stockton.

As well as handing over their cigarettes, smokers will also be asked to complete a simple home energy survey to qualify for the two detectors.