SMOKERS are being challenged to give the habit up for good this October.

The challenge is part of Stoptober, the country’s biggest mass quitting attempt to reduce deaths and reduce the more than 1,000 people who die from smoking related illnesses in North Yorkshire every year.

“Quitting smoking is hugely beneficial for your health, and the health of everyone around you,” said County Councillor Caroline Dickinson, from North Yorkshire County Council.

Smokefreelife North Yorkshire offers a free, flexible support package to suit the individual. Smokers wanting to stop can attend clinics, drop-ins, receive nicotine replacement therapy or talk to specialist advisers over the phone.

Visit www.smokefreelifenorthyorkshire.co.uk, phone 0800 2465215 or 01609 663023 or text QUIT to 66777 to find out more about giving up the habit.