More than 1,000 quit in nine months

The latest figures reveal that between April and December last year, 1,000 smokers have given up in Bolton, with the help of the borough's stop smoking service.

The actual figure will be even higher as many people stub it out without visiting advisors.

Adrian Butterworth, group manager of Bolton Stop Smoking, said: "This is a really good figure. People are realising the health advantages of not smoking.

"There's nothing else people can do that will give such rapid benefits to their overall health.

"With the reduction of these poisons in your body, it will be able to work properly and process foods properly and will enable you to heal faster."

In the previous year, between March, 2004, and March, 2005, 1,697 people quit smoking using professional help. There were 999 in the same period the year before.

Public health specialist Deborah Collinson said: "I'm delighted to hear the news and I'm sure it will make a significant and positive difference, not only to the health of those 1,000 individuals, but their families."

In Bolton, 29.6 per cent of people smoke, above the national average of 27 per cent.

In some parts of the borough, such as on the Hall i'th' Wood estate, that figure can be as high as 65 per cent. The Bolton Evening News launched its campaign after these figures were released in a bid to see smoking banned in pubs and clubs, including those that serve food.

Since it was launched, more than 1,000 people have signed a petition supporting the ban.

In 2004, 180 people were diagnosed with lung cancer as a result of smoking. Many died within weeks.

There are 76,502 Bolton residents at risk from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and 15,300 will become sufferers.

People with COPD endure regular hospital visits - the Royal Bolton Hospital admits almost 700 people a year with COPD attacks.

Smokers who want to stub it out and need help can call Bolton's Stop Smoking service on 01204 360008.