THE anti-smoking group ASH is celebrating a major step forward in the fight against tobacco.

The group, which is based in Bury, has welcomed an announcement that all 192 member countries of the World Health Organisation (WHO) have unanimously adopted an anti-smoking treaty.

North West ASH (Action on Smoking & Health) has been campaigning tirelessly towards this goal. The adopted treaty requires protection from exposure to tobacco smoke in the workplace, public places and public transport.

It also lays down guidelines on health warnings to be carried on cigarette packets, recommends tax increases on tobacco products and calls for a crackdown in cigarette smuggling.

North West ASH president Lord Leslie Turnberg said: "This is a great day in the fight against smoking. As millions die each year throughout the world, we need this global action to fight the promotion of cigarettes by the tobacco industry. It will complement our own measures such as the UK Tobacco Advertising Ban. Together, we will see a real difference."

An estimated five million people die due to smoking-related illnesses each year.