HEALTH bosses are urging East Lancashire smokers to quit once and for all with a new drug which has just been released on the NHS.

They said residents can kick the habit this New Year with the help of Champix, which reached the UK last month.

Research shows the drug helps smokers to triple their chances of kicking the habit.

And now was a better time to quit than ever as smoking will be banned in public places in July, bosses added.

The NHS runs 'Stop Smoking' services to give people advice and other treatments to overcome their addiction.

Christine Donnelly, East Lancashire NHS Primary Care Trust's Stop Smoking co-ordinator, says: "We anticipate that there will be a big demand to quit smoking during the coming months, with a significant demand for this new drug, given that almost three quarters of smokers say they would like to stop smoking.

"The service has advice and community Stop Smoking clinics available in the New Year, and though we know demand will be high, we want to help everyone in their bid to get back a healthy and more fulfiling life."

She said the drug "is not a miracle cure on its own," and people wanting it must attend the Stop Smoking service.

The new drug mirrors the effect of nicotine in the body and stimulates the same brain receptors as nicotine to reduce withdrawal symptoms.

Champix is "up to twice as effective as Zyban, the present drug used by the service," said Mrs Donnelly.

She added: "Smokers must also be motivated to plan and prepare their quit effort, and that's where we can help."

The PCT covers Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale.

Mrs Donnelly said the ban on smoking in all public places would improve people's health.

And she said it should not affect takings in places such as pubs and restaurants.

She said: "There is considerable evidence from countries that have introduced legislation that the impact on the hospitality industry is not detrimental.

"Analysis and international experience shows that going smoke-free can actually be beneficial to the hospitality industry."

Mike Leaf, director of public health for Blackburn with Darwen PCT said: "The local NHS Stop Smoking service is providing easily accessible community-based sessions to help people give up.

"These sessions, coupled with the new drug and other well established aids are a tremendous help in providing the support people need to help them stop smoking."

To contact the Stop Smoking services in Hyndburn and Ribble Valley call 01254 294727 or 358095 and 01282 607002 in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale. People in Blackburn with Darwen can call 01254 358095.