Stoptober, a new stop smoking campaign officially kicks off today with support from celebrities nationwide.
Celebrity anti-smoking advocates, former England player Ian Wright, Apprentice contestant Kate Walsh and renowned make-up artist Gary Cockerill have pledged their support for the new campaign.
The fabulous three will be encouraging quitters to stay smokefree for 28 days, supporting them across their areas of expertise – Health, Wealth and Self.
Research shows those who stop smoking for 28 days are five times more likely to stay smokefree. Stoptober will lend a hand to help smokers achieve this goal.
Stoptober mentor and ex-footballer Ian Wright said: ‘Smoking is detrimental to our health and, not just for the smoker but, for all of those around them, too.
'This is a fantastic campaign, which will really help encourage quitters to work together and give up cigarettes for good. I will be supporting everyone by showing ways to improve health and fitness for people of all levels, and to make sure the cigarettes stay stubbed out.'
Former Apprentice and financial expert Kate Walsh said: 'Everyone knows how expensive smoking is, and I will be supporting quitters by offering tips and advice on how to use the money they are saving by staying quit.
'Whether it’s saving for a special holiday or buying a new car, I can show the best ways of making the most of their new-found cash.'
Celebrity make up artist Gary Cockerill said: 'Not many people realise how damaging smoking is for skin, hair and teeth. It causes premature aging, yellowing of the teeth and brittle and smelly hair.
'I’ll be providing some top insider beauty tips and advice on how to improve your skin after you have quit and minimise the harmful effects smoking has had on your looks.'
As well as inspiration and expert advice from Ian, Kate and Gary, all of those who want to stub out smoking for good will receive daily support and encouragement via:
• A Stoptober app (available free via Smartphone)
• A Facebook page
• A Stoptober support pack
Not only are there financial benefits of quitting, individuals will also experience physical improvements including a better sense of smell, taste and more energy.
Longer term, those who stop smoking reduce their risk of heart disease and lung cancer as well as protecting those around them from secondhand smoke.
Smoking is the biggest cause of premature death in England and each year it accounts for over 100,000 deaths in the UK and one in two long-term smokers will die prematurely from a smoking disease.
For more information and to join the biggest stop smoking challenge of its kind, visit smokefree.nhs.uk/Stoptober.
