CIGARETTE lovers are being urged to kick the habit this week in the run-up to No Smoking Day. The NHS Tower Hamlets tobacco control team is going to be out on the streets of the borough calling for smokers to quit in time for next Wednesday s annual No

CIGARETTE lovers are being urged to kick the habit this week in the run-up to No Smoking Day.

The NHS Tower Hamlets tobacco control team is going to be out on the streets of the borough calling for smokers to quit in time for next Wednesday's annual No Smoking Day.

Health chiefs claim that during a similar event last year, more than 1,300 people in Tower Hamlets signed up to the borough's Stop Smoking Service.

And they are hoping to recruit a similar number this year as they kick-off the event today which follows the Break Free theme, inspired by smokers themselves who feel trapped by their addiction.

Ian Basnett, joint director of public health at NHS Tower Hamlets and the council, said: "Smoking is the single most important cause of preventable ill heath and health inequality. It further harms those around us.

"Stopping smoking is of benefit at any age and is the most important lifestyle change that an individual can make."

Members of the tobacco control team will be talking to businesses today in Brick Lane, will be based at Mile End Underground station tomorrow from 11.30pm-1.30pm, at Gladstone One Stop Shop on Wednesday, Whitechapel station on Thursday and at the London Muslim Centre from 12pm-1pm on Friday.

Contact the Health Hotline on 020 7364 5016.