A RECORD number of North-East smokers have been inspired to quit as part of this year’s 28-day Stoptober challenge.

More than 13,000 people from across the region signed-up to the nation’s biggest mass quit attempt, joining more than a quarter of a million people who swapped their fags for gags this October.

Backed by Fresh and supported by every local council in the North East, this year’s campaign saw some of the country’s top comedians including Paddy McGuinness, Al Murray, Simon Brodkin (aka Lee Nelson) and Andi Osho, bring a touch of British humour to help motivate quitters through the challenge.

Those who successfully took part and didn’t smoke for 28 days, are now five times more likely to stay permanently stopped and can look forward to a healthier and wealthier life.

Martyn Willmore, from Fresh, said: “It’s fantastic to see that so many people across the North-East have used Stoptober as a chance to quit and break free from the devastating harm of smoking.

"Staying quit for 28 days is a massive achievement and should not be underestimated. Not only will it save you more money to treat you and your family, you will also feel better in yourself and lower your chances of a serious smoking disease like lung cancer.

“For those who didn’t quite make it to 28-days smoke-free, don’t worry. Quitting smoking can be tough and it’s only normal to have a couple of goes at it, before you eventually stop for good. There are now more ways than ever to get the right support you need.”

Consultant in health improvement at Public Health England’s North East Centre Claire Sullivan said: “With more than 250,000 participants nationally, it is fantastic to see that this year’s Stoptober has been so successful.

"Evidence shows the clear health benefits that giving up smoking provides, and that by quitting smoking people can make a huge difference to their long-term wellbeing.

“The success of mass-quit attempts, such as Stoptober, show that a tobacco-free generation is now within sight as more smokers stub out their cigarettes as part of a conscious decision to improve their health.”

This year smokers could access a range of free tools to help them quit as well as the encouragement and support from thousands of people quitting together through Stoptober social media channels.

For more information visit stoptober.smokefree.nhs.uk.