Lincolnshire's Smokers Encouraged to Swap Fags for Gags

Trying to find extra support while you're trying to quit smoking is no laughing matter.

But if you're in Lincolnshire and joining some of Britain's top comedians in swapping fags for gags this Stoptober, look no further than the Phoenix NHS Stop Smoking Service.

Smokers can sign up to the national 28-day stop smoking challenge and gain additional support locally from specialist advisors from Phoenix through their journey.

Phoenix, which is part of Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust (LCHS) and commissioned by Lincolnshire County Council, offers free, individually-tailored support and advice to those who are ready to kick their smoking habit.

Kelly Waldie, Social Marketing Project Officer at LCHS, said: "Stoptober is a great way to motivate yourself to quit smoking and by doing it with Phoenix, our specialist advisors can make sure you do it in a way that suits you best. Smokers can access a range of appointments in their community either in person or over the telephone to fit in with their daily routine. Those who can go 28 days without a cigarette are five times more likely to stay permanently smoke-free."

The Lincs Smokefree Alliance, which includes partners such as Smokefree Homes and Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, is also supporting this year's campaign.

This year's Stoptober campaign is being fronted by top British comedians, including Paddy McGuinness, Al Murray, Simon Brodkin and Andi Osho, who will bring a touch of British humour to help quitters through their challenge.

To find your nearest Phoenix advisor, call 0800 8401533 or text 'Stoptober' to 07786 205128.

You can also make your Stoptober pledge online at http://www.stoptober.smokefree.nhs.uk/

For further support in making your home smoke-free in Lincolnshire, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/smokefree-lincs