Wiltshire's smokers urged to swap fags for swag on No Smoking Day (From This Is Wiltshire)

Thousands of smokers in Wiltshire are being encouraged to swap fags for swag and consider the financial benefits of quitting, this month on the 30th anniversary of No Smoking Day on Wednsday.

Nearly one in six UK adults smoke, including 17 per cent in Wiltshire. But UK figures show two thirds want to quit .

This year smokers are being encouraged to focus on what they could afford to buy if they were to quit for a day (saving £7), a week (£49), a month (£210) and a year (£2,555).

To help smokers put out their cigarettes for good the Wiltshire Public Health’s NHS Stop Smoking Service will be providing Free Health MOT assessments to smokers at three locations during the week.

Maggie Rae, Corporate Director Wiltshire Council said: “One of the biggest incentives for smokers to quit comes from considering the real amount of money they spend on cigarettes and thinking about what themselves and their family could afford if they were to stop for good. 

“By tallying up the exact amount of money that could be saved, smokers can work towards an actual goal – be it a new pair of shoes, a family outing or paying off some bills.

“No Smoking Day provides the perfect opportunity for people to join hundred of others in attempting to quit on the same day. This is why Wiltshire Public Health’s efforts in spreading the word about the support available are so important, to help many make steps towards a healthier and wealthier, smoke free life.”

Keith Humphries, cabinet member for public health and protection said: "We're offering an MOT health check for people who smoke as there could be concerns about the effect on their health. By having health checks this may help to harden their resolve to give up smoking for good and that makes it a worthwhile exercise."

Health Events will be held from 11am to 5pm at the following locations and health professionals will be available to offer advice and information and free health checks.

• March 12 at Sainsburys Chippenham,
• March 13 at Wickes, Canal Road, Trowbridge
• March 14 at Churchfields Industrial Estate at Telford Road, Salisbury.