HELP is at hand for South Craven smokers wanting to stub out the habit.

North Yorkshire County Council says there is a range of support available.

And to tie in with World No Tobacco Day, which takes place next Wednesday (May 31), it is stressing that the benefits of quitting extend beyond health.

County Councillor Caroline Dickinson, executive member for public health, said: "By making the positive decision to give up, smokers can quickly enjoy a range of benefits.

"In just three days, smokers will feel less breathless, and after three months coughs, wheezing and breathing problems will begin to decrease.

"But not only that, smokers will save significant amounts of money."

Figures from Action on Smoking and Health show that on average, most smokers who give-up the habit save £250 a month on the cost of cigarettes.

People who live or work in South Craven can access free stop smoking advice and support at Smokefreelife North Yorkshire, by calling 01609 663023 or texting QUIT to 66777.

The service is funded by the county council, which is also backing the Breathe 2025 initiative – which aims to eliminate tobacco-related health inequalities across the region.

Visit breathe2025.org.uk for more details.