Blackpool smokers urged to quit and get fit

Quit & Get Fit is a free, eight week course from Smokefreelife Blackpool, the council’s stop smoking service.

The course starts on April 6 at 8pm at Blackpool FC’s Bloomfield Road stadium.

Places can be booked on 07776 181648.

Smokefreelife Blackpool’s health improvement manager, Sam Thompson, said: “We take a very positive approach and are all about supporting and empowering people to improve their health and well being.

“Smokers are at least four times more likely to quit successfully when they have professional support, so we’ll be providing free and regular advice, carbon monoxide tests, plus nicotine replacement therapies and products to help participants quit for good.”

Marc Joseph, senior health and education officer for Blackpool FC Community Trust, added: “The fitness sessions will be based around circuit training to start, but we’ll be opening them up to suit the participants needs and wants.

“Team games such as dodgeball and handball are sure to improve the group dynamic and although the course is open to everyone we’re also looking to prevent under 25s developing a lifetime habit. We’re delighted to be part of Quit & Get Fit and future programmes are already being planned.”

• Smokefreelife Blackpool’s team of advisors can be contacted on 0800 246 1575 or 01253 462463, or text QUIT to 66777. Alternatively visit http://www.smokefreelifeblackpool.co.uk/