MORE than 1,100 people quit smoking in the town last year with help from the Health Improvement Team’s dedicated Smokefree St Helens Team.

Between April 2013 and March 2014 1,121 people ditched the cigarettes thanks to the team’s assistance.

The team offers support to any smokers who want to quit, as well the choice to cut down before a quit attempt or to reduce the numbers smoked each day, which is often the first step on the road to quitting for good.

Statistics reveal that in St Helens, 29,295 people smoke and it is estimated it costs the local economy £48.2m every year in NHS bills, lost productivity, litter and fire damage. Reducing the rate of smoking is regarded as a key challenge for St Helens.

Among the people who have binned the habit is Ann Fairclough, from Parr.

“When I went along to the service, they were lovely and even when I was struggling they didn’t make me feel like a naughty girl – they were brilliant and supportive,” said Ann.

“My advice is give it a go and go along to the Stop Smoking Service – they’re great and even if you relapse – keep going.

“You just have to learn to change your habits. It’s not easy, but it can be done!”

Julie Tipton, who manages the service added: “We know that quitting for good in one go can be daunting so we’re here to help you find the best way for you, whether that’s by cutting down before quitting or to reduce harm by smoking less each day.

“Everybody’s different and what works for one person won’t necessarily work for others, so we’ll take time to get to know you and find the best solution that’s right for you.”

The team runs 25 sessions from Monday to Saturday at various locations around St Helens, including a two hour slot in St Mary’s Market, six days a week. Anyone can drop in to one of these sessions to speak to an adviser – you don’t need an appointment.

To find out where your nearest drop in session is just call the team on 01744 814 837 or visit www.healthimprovmentteam.co.uk.