It's more important than ever to take proactive steps to stop smoking.

That's the message from Richmond Council and its Public Health team to residents.

People who smoke generally have an increased risk of contracting respiratory infection and of more severe symptoms once infected.

Covid-19 symptoms may therefore be more severe for smokers.

From tomorrow (Thursday, October 1), the 28-day Stoptober challenge run by Public Health England is back, encouraging thousands of people to quit smoking.

You can increase your chances of quitting for good by five times if you take part.

Stop Smoking Service

If you are looking to quit, you can access the council's free personalised online Stop Smoking Service, by emailing [email protected] or calling the 24-hour helpline on 0800 011 4558.

Since March, it has helped more than 60 Richmond residents to quit.

The NHS also has free resources to help you quit, including the Stoptober app that gives you daily support, allows you to track your progress and see how much money you're saving.

Teddington residents who gave up

Sunay and Doray, of Teddington, stopped smoking this year after using the Council's Stop Smoking Service.

They said: "We started the programme just before Covid-19 and despite the lockdown, Chrissie – our Smoking Cessation Advisor – continued to go the extra mile for us, supporting us with regular phone calls. She felt like a friend from the very beginning.

"We will always be grateful for her support and cannot thank her enough. It was her professional advice that meant, despite the additional stresses of the pandemic, we didn't give up and we have now stopped smoking for good."

Cllr Piers Allen is cabinet Member for the council's Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee and the Richmond Health & Wellbeing Board.

He said: "Evidence proves that by stopping for just 28 days, you will be 5 more times likely to kick the habit for good and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

"It's great to hear the positive feedback from residents using the council's free Stop Smoking Service.

"Our Smoking Cessation Advisors are passionate about helping residents, so I urge you to use the support available and stub it out for good."

Specialist advice is also available in many pharmacies and GP surgeries across the borough.

Join the conversation on our Facebook page Or send us a tweet and tell us your view.

We can also be found on Instagram and LinkedIn.[.b]