A council is urging people across Hertsmere to prepare for battle against cigarettes today on national No Smoking Day.

This year’s campaign has a ‘V for Victory’ theme and is aimed at helping smokers put together a personal battle plan to quit the habit.

Councillor Brenda Batten, who is responsible for health at Hertsmere Borough Council, said: “No Smoking Day is a great opportunity for smokers in Hertsmere to quit alongside hundreds of thousands of other people across the UK.

“We know that quitting isn’t easy but there is support available and you can win the battle against cigarettes.

"With help, smokers have a higher chance of succeeding and this is why we are spreading the word about the range of services and resources available to them.

"Let’s hope No Smoking Day is your start on the road to victory and towards a healthier and wealthier smoke-free life.”

The annual campaign is run by the British Heart Foundation and encouraged one million smokers to make a quit attempt last year.

For more information and support, visit nosmokingday.org.uk