WE’RE one week into Stoptober and people in west Essex are being reminded it’s not too late to start to stop smoking.

West Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is backing people already taking part in Stoptober and encouraging those interested to sign up now.

By signing up to Stoptober- the 28-day stop smoking challenge- now, you can join thousands of people across the UK swapping fags for gags to quit for good.

Dr Christine Moss, clinical director at West Essex CCG said: “We’d like to say a big congratulations to everyone in west Essex who has signed up to Stoptober and urge anyone who is thinking about it, to join and gain the benefits from the national campaign.”

“There is some excellent support available and it’s really simple and free to get hold of, by signing up on the website and downloading the app.”

People can sign up simply by entering their email address at www.nhs.uk/smokefree where they can request a Stoptober pack, download the app and receive daily updates all completely free.

Advice and support to stop smoking is available free and locally all year round directly from www.nhs.uk/smokefree or more locally by talking to your GP or visiting your pharmacy.

In Harlow, people can drop into a free weekly stop smoking clinic at Wych Elm Clinic, CM20 1QP Saturdays 10am to 12.00pm.