HUNDREDS of people in Burnley will be starting 1996 having made a new year resolution to give up smoking - and thanks to a bold scheme by Burnley Council many could still be off the evil weed at the end of 1996.

Although 1,000 Britons a day succeed in quitting, many more find themselves unable to kick the habit.

Health experts say that stopping smoking dramatically reduces your chances of getting lung cancer, heart disease and other disorders.

But many people fear they will put on weight if they give up cigarettes.

Burnley has one of the highest rates in the country for lung cancer and heart disease - so health workers here are always looking for ways to improve people's health.

Linda Searle, Burnley's new health and fitness development officer, has come up with a way to help people keep their new year resolutions.

"Quit and Get Fit" - the first ever course of its kind in Burnley - is a series of keep-fit and counselling sessions at the Thompson recreation centre for those who have just stopped smoking, and those who want to stop.

Linda told the Citizen: "Smoking is a killer. There's no doubt about that. A lot of new year resolutions are to stop smoking, but it can be very difficult. A lot of people are worried about putting on weight - that's why I came up with the idea for an exercise programme.

"If we help people control their weight, or even lose weight, then they will stand a better chance of quitting for good."

The courses, which start on January 4, are for men and women of all ages. Linda will assess the fitness of everyone who takes part and tailor the exercise sessions to suit. Janet Walton from Burnley Health Care Trust will be on hand to give advice and counselling.

Linda added: "This is a wonderful opportunity for people to continue their new year resolutions."

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