HEALTH chiefs are encouraging people to help to reduce the dangers of air pollution.

Public Health North East is supporting National Clean Air Day in a bid to clean the air in the region breathe.

It is urging councils, businesses and members of the public to play their part in reducing emissions by changing the way they tackle to the problem such as switching off idling vehicles.

Professor Peter Kelly from PHE North East said: “Air pollution increases the risk of some serious illnesses, and can make existing conditions, like respiratory disorders, worse. We all need to do our bit to reduce air pollution; everyone has a role to play.

“Relatively small things, for example, people walking or cycling to work and school and taking public transport when possible will help improve health through exercise, limit air pollution and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

“Councils should consider introducing no idling areas outside schools, hospitals and in traffic related air pollution hotspots.”