Press release
Hundreds benefit from stop smoking advice
Hundreds of shoppers picked up advice and information about giving their health a boost on National No Smoking Day.
On National No Smoking Day (14th March) Bury town centre was bursting at the seams with advice and information stalls, competitions and free fitness classes, to get people thinking about improving their health and well being. Whether people were looking for support to quit smoking; taking up exercise or eating more healthily – there was something for everyone on the day.
The main message on National No Smoking Day this year was to encourage smokers to take a leap to a healthier tobacco free future, but to make the day a little more enjoyable, Team Bury partners got out and about in the town centre promoting the many ways in which local people of all ages can give their health a boost.
In addition to advice, information, free Zumba and Tai Chi; Guide Dogs were on hand to highlight the link between smoking and blindness. The trainee Guide Dog puppies certainly drew in the crowds.
Stopping smoking often goes hand in hand with making other healthy adjustments and the day was used to promote the wide range of health and wellbeing services available to local people, as well as offering tips to make simple but effective changes to improve health.
Dr. Peter Elton, Bury’s Director of Public Health said: “We know that people will only attempt to quit smoking when they are ready. Our local NHS Stop Smoking Service aims to support and motivate people whenever then the time is right for them – all year round, and No Smoking Day gives people that little bit extra motivation to quit.”
“Stopping smoking is the single most effective way you can improve your health. I think we got this message across in a light hearted way on the day, and it was great to see so many people getting involved.”
The event was organised by NHS Bury, Bury Council and Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, along with other Team Bury partners.
Anyone who couldn’t come along on the day but would like support to stop smoking can contact the Stop Smoking Service in Bury on 0845 223 9001 for free and confidential advice and support.
ENDS
Date: 20th March 2012
For press & media enquiries: contact Caroline Dearden, Corporate Communications Manager on 0161 762 3106 or email bur-pct.communications@nhs.net