SMOKERS in east Durham are quitting in droves, thanks to the efforts of local specialists.

The Easington Primary Care Trust's (PCT) Stop Smoking Service helped 1,808 people stub out the habit last year.

The service is the second-top performer in the region, pipped by neighbouring Hartlepool, which achieved 1,865 quitters, and is well above the national average of 818.

Anna Lynch, director of public health for Easington, said: "The Easington figures have been consistently high for several years, and show the determination of smokers in the district to opt for healthier lifestyles.

"They also exemplify the excellent work of our smoking cessation team, GP practices and other partners in the community".

This is the sixth year running that Easington's Stop Smoking Service has been in the top performing group of PCTs.

Programme manager Claire Mathews said: "We are delighted that our success rate with helping smokers quit is so high. More and more smokers are looking for ways to quit, especially in the light of the forthcoming legislation that will ban smoking in workplaces and public spaces"

"If anyone wants to quit they can get help from their GP, come along to one of our community drop-in groups or get support within their workplace.

"We are able to help them with free advice, support and nicotine replacement therapy."

For more information on local quit-smoking groups, call the team on 0191-569 2825 or visit www.easington-pct. nhs.uk