SMOKERS in the North-East who want to quit are being urged to make the most of the annual Stoptober campaign which gets underway on October 1.

Over the last two years Stoptober has proved successful in motivating 22,000 North-East smokers to make an attempt to give up their unhealthy and expensive habit.

This year’s event is backed by Public Health England, councils throughout the North-East and Fresh, the region’s own tobacco control agency.

Nationally, top UK comedians Paddy McGuinness, Al Murray, Simon Brodkin and Andi Osho are also backing Stoptober.

To mark the occasion council officials took the giant red Stoptober ‘Stop’ sign to some of the region's best landmarks, including Durham Cathedral and Darlington’s Brick Train.

Mirian Davidson, director of Public Health at Darlington Borough Council, said: “If you are concerned about your smoking and feel ready to quit, Stoptober is an event which will support you.”

Councillor Lucy Hovvels, cabinet member for healthier communities at Durham County Council, said: “We know that smoking is the biggest causes of preventable death and disease in Durham, so we’re delighted to support this year’s Stoptober initiative.”

Ailsa Rutter, director of Fresh, said: “Stoptober has been a massive success in the North-East and this year could be even bigger.”

Stoptober provides smokers with a range of free tools including a new stop smoking pack through the post, a 28-day mobile phone app, text support with daily updates, quitting advice and tips for coping, as well as the encouragement and support through social media channels. To register visit smokefree.nhs.uk/Stoptober/

The national Stoptober roadshow will be visiting Newcastle on Friday September 12, Middlesbrough on Sunday 14 and Sunderland on Saturday September 20.