FORMER smokers from across Worcestershire have thrown their support behind a national campaign encouraging others to stamp out the habit.

The theme of this year’s national Stop Smoking Day on Wednesday, March 11 is ‘Proud to be a Quitter’ and those who have already given up are encouraging other to follow their example.

Sarah and Simon Fisher from Bromsgrove quit five weeks ago after more than 20 years of smoking about 30 every day.

Mrs Fisher said the county’s stop smoking service had been invaluable in helping her and her husband quit.

“At our first stop smoking appointment we spent over an hour discussing the best treatment and support plans for both of us,” she said.

“I found the service very valuable in helping me quit.

“The service is tailored to your individual needs and provides regular, consistent and encouraging support.

“I’m very proud to call myself a quitter.”

Stop smoking adviser for Worcestershire, where about 15 per cent of adults are smokers, Heidi Hulbert said those seeking help from the NHS were up to four times more likely to successfully kick the habit.

“We offer expert, friendly advisers, stop smoking medicines, carbon monoxide checks, one-to-one support and helpful information and we will be with you every step of the way,” she said.

For free help to stop smoking call 0300 123 0619.