NEW calls have been made to urge East Lancashire smokers to sign up to Stoptober — the country’s 28-day mass quit attempt.

With data showing that more than 20 per cent of North West residents are smokers, Public Health England is hoping that people receive support and encouragement every step of the way.

East Lancashire residents are also being encouraged to sign up with their friends, family and colleagues.

Dr Rebecca Wagstaff, deputy director for health and wellbeing at Public Health England North West, said: “Quitting is one of the most significant health improvements a person can make and Stoptober provides the perfect opportunity for family, friends and colleagues to work together towards quitting smoking for good.

“The range of free personalised support available is great and I encourage anyone thinking of quitting to sign up to the Stoptober 28-day challenge.”

Andrea Crossfield, chief executive of Tobacco Free Futures, said: “I encourage every smoker in East Lancashire to quit this Stoptober and join with loved ones and friends to motivate each other throughout their 28-day challenge.

“After a successful Stoptober 2014, which saw 32,000 people in the North West sign up to quit, it would be great to see even more people pledging to quit and joining together to make a positive change.

“If you quit smoking for 28 days then you are five times more likely to quit for good, improving your health and putting more money into your pocket.

“There has never been a better time to quit, with more free support than ever this year.”

Visit smokefree.nhs.uk/stoptober to sign up.