SMOKERS in the Royal Borough are being targeted by an expanded cessation campaign. 

In Ascot, Windsor and Maidenhead 13 per cent of residents smoke, or approvimately 18,792 people. 

Despite this being six per cent lower than the England average, the council has increased funding and streamlined its stop smoking service following a review earlier this year.  

The borough has increased investment in its smoking cessation service from £93,000 to £128,000 per year.

GPs are now able to refer exceptional cases with a diagnosis of respiratory disease, vascular dementia or cardiovascular disease to the stop smoking service.

Councillor Stuart Carroll, who chaired the review, said: “As part of our vision to build a borough for everyone, we recognise the importance of tackling health inequalities.

"Targeting smoking cessation services to those most in need is a key part of the council's public health strategy.

"This expanded offering will ensure services reach more vulnerable residents and help improve their health and wellbeing."

"Around half of regular smokers are killed by a smoking related disease, and on average lose 16 years of life."

For more information about stopping smoking, call 0800 622 6360 or send a SMS QUIT to 66777.