A BURY-based anti-smoking pressure group has issued a "wake-up" call to those who smoke in bed.

Figures have shown that since 1999, 52 people in the North West have died in fires started by smoking.

Now, Bury-based North West ASH (Action on Smoking and Health) has joined forces with regional fire services and public health workers in a campaign to persuade smokers to give up that last cigarette at night.

And those in the Bury area who want to quit the habit altogether as part of their New Year vows can call a helpline for assistance.

Peter Elton from North West ASH, which has its headquarters in Bury, has warned about the dangers of smoking in bed. "Beds are for sharing with other people, not with cigarettes.

"To enjoy the pleasures of a sweet smelling bedroom, I hope people will make a New Year resolution to give up all their smoking."

Brenda Fullard, smoking cessation manager for the North West Region of the Department of Health, said: "Successfully giving up that last cigarette at night will not only reduce the risks of starting a fire in your bedroom, but is also a real morale booster if you want to give up smoking completely."

The joint regional campaign is aimed at persuading smokers to lead to a healthier life after the usual festive excesses.

The NHS now offers a massive range of help for people to stop smoking, from routine nicotine replacement therapy to counselling advice, helplines and group support.

More than 61,000 smokers kicked the habit in the last year after receiving NHS smoking cessation services.

In total, 126,800 smokers in England set a date to give up smoking last year and nearly half had successfully given up a month later.

Smokers who want to help quit through the NHS can either contact their GP or the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0845 169 0169.

Alternatively, they can call a special Bury and Rochdale smoking cessation helpline on 01706 708000 to receive a special information pack.