PENSIONER Arthur Richmond has become one of the first smokers to make use of a new project to help people quit - ending an almost 60-year habit.

The 76-year-old has smoked for the past 58 years but, with the help of specially-trained Age Concern staff, is now striving to give up.

The former Royal Navy gunner is making the most of stop smoking sessions being pioneered by Age Concern staff trained by Darlington Primary Care Trust.

"When I first started smoking, we were told they were good for us," said Mr Richmond, of Darlington, who had been smoking 20 cigarettes a day.

"I remember the adverts that used to say they cooled the throat.

"But I wish I had never started. I've had a few chest infections lately and just decided I was fed up with smoking - and spending £5.37 a packet."

Stop smoking specialists at Darlington PCT are offering to train any organisations on how to help people quit.

PCT stop smoking advisor Darcy Brown said: "After July 1, people are going to find it increasingly difficult to smoke in public, so there has never been a better time to give up.

"Age Concern is leading the way in getting its staff trained and I would urge all organisations in Darlington to consider that this is the way forward."

Age Concern rose to the challenge after a meeting with the PCT's chief executive, Colin Morris, who has thrown down the gauntlet to the community in the run-up to the introduction of anti-smoking legislation in July.

"We banned smoking at our Bradbury House base more than a year ago," said June Capstick, Age Concern's senior officer in charge of care services.

"From the 33 people who come for day care, only four continue to smoke by going outside.

"But we also wanted to be doing something to help people quit, so took up the PCT's offer of training."

Mr Richmond said: "I have tablets to control the craving and feel a lot better."

The new service runs every Friday and no appointment is needed. The service is open to anyone over the age of 50 who would like to try to give up smoking.

Anyone interested in quitting can contact Ms Capstick on 01325-362862.