HEALTH officials are urging parents to make it their New Year's resolution to stop smoking for the sake of their children's health.

Bury Primary Care Trust (PCT) wants to reduce the number of youngsters admitted to hospital with a chest infection who are twice as likely to need treatment if their parents are smokers.

Dr Peter Elton, Bury's director of public health, said: "Second-hand smoke is dangerous for children and I would urge parents to give up smoking. It would be be good if they stopped permanently, but even giving up smoking for a few days when people get together would help."

For advice and information on how to quit smoking call Bury and Rochdale Stop Smoking Service on 01706 708 001.