Hillingdon Council is supporting anyone wishing to kick the habit by offering free sessions with an NHS Stop Smoking Advisor.

Research shows that smokers are four times more likely to stop smoking with support, and in the last 12 months the council has helped over 1500 residents to curb the habit.

Smokers can get help from Hillingdon's free service in eight weekly support sessions at a number of locations across the borough.

A stop smoking counsellor will offer advice on how to cope, controlling weight gain and cravings, and nicotine replacement therapy is available for the cost of a prescription.

Jean Palmer, deputy chief executive and corporate director of residents services, said: “Smoking is one of the leading risk factors of heart disease and so giving up really is one of the best things you can do for your health.

“We want to support and empower residents on World No Smoking Day to start living a healthier lifestyle.”

For more information visit Hillingdon.gov.uk/stopsmoking or call 0800 1697541

Young people in Northolt have been encouraging people to stop smoking by creating short video clips.