SMOKERS in Teignbridge were being urged to take the first steps to quit the habit on national No Smoking Day.

Health bosses are recommending the 18.2 per cent of the Newton Abbot population who are smokers contact the Devon Stop Smoking service for support.

Today’s annual No Smoking Day is now in its 33rd year and the theme this year is Proud to be a Quitter.

Studies show that while two thirds of smokers want to quit, almost one in five adults in the UK continue to smoke.

The NHS-led devon Stop Smoking Service, which operates clinics at Newton Abbot hospital, offers free and confidential support.

As well as face to face help, support is also available via email and telephone.

Greg Price, service manager, said: ‘We understand the majority of smokers want to stop smoking but many find the task too daunting.

‘No Smoking Day is the perfect opportunity to inspire smokers in Teignbridge to quit for good.

‘With support, smokers are more likely to success in their attempt to quit.

‘’That’s why we’re pledging our full support to No Smoking Day, educating smokers on the wide range of local services and resources available to them.’

No Smoking Day is run by the British Heart foundation, supported by Public Health England and many other organisations.

Dr Mike Knapton, associated medical director at the BHF, said: ‘Giving up smoking is the single best thing you can do for your health.’

Clinics take place at Newton Abbot hospital on Tuesdays and are led by Sarah Leggatt.

The clinics are not drop in sessions and anyone wanting to attend must book in advance.

Appointments can be between 20 and 60 minutes with a specialist adviser.

The service is run by Health Promotion Devon, a specialist arm of the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust and advises about 1,000 people to quit smoking every year, one of the best success rates in the country.

Contact 01884 836024 or email [email protected] for more information.