SMOKERS looking to quit the habit can get a helping hand.

The NHS Stop Smoking Service is offering extended support during the national Stoptober campaign.

Experts can give advice to smokers and to people trying to wean themselves off by using electronic cigarettes.

The stop smoking service, which operates across north-east Essex, is run by community healthcare provider Anglian Community Enterprise, which since 2003 has helped more than 33,000 people to stop smoking.

Sue White, smoking cessation service co-ordinator for ACE, said: “Anyone signing up to the Stoptober campaign between September 21 and October 31 will receive free nicotine replacement therapy in participating pharmacies, plus the full support of our team, which includes one-to-one sessions.

“The philosophy of our service is to treat everyone as an individual and look at the most effective method of quitting for that person.

“People shouldn’t be put off if they have tried before and not succeeded. Most people have multiple attempts before they quit for good.”

For further information, call 0800 022 4524, visit acelifestyle.org, or text quit plus your postcode to 07860 025327.