A NEW service to help smokers quit will be launched at Blackburn shopping centre and Darwen Market Hall.

Blackburn with Darwen Primary Care Trust, is running the scheme, which will include help and advice at drop-in sessions at community, leisure and health centres and support groups.

Jan Holding, smoking cessation specialist, said: "Although giving up smoking is a difficult decision, it is one of the best things you can do for your health and we can help if you are determined to give it a go.

"People often have several attempts at giving up before they succeed so even if you have tried before, it doesn't mean you can't succeed this time.

"I would encourage anyone thinking about stopping smoking to come and find out what we can offer. For example, they may be eligible for free Nicotine Replacement Therapy which doubles their chance of success."

Staff from the Health Promotion Unit will be in Victoria Square, Blackburn, on Friday from 9.30am to 4pm,26 jan, and in Darwen Market Hall on Saturday 27jan from 9.30am to 12.30pm

Drop in sessions will be advertised later. Anyone interested can ring Jan Holding on 01254 294722 for more information.