THE news that she was to become a grandmother was enough to stop Carol Trachonitis smoking.

The 58-year-old is supporting National No Smoking Day today.

“They always say that you are never too old to quit and this year I’ve finally done it," said Mrs Trachonitis.

"The pandemic has really made me think about my health and what is important.

"It’s been a tough year for everyone and I realised that with each lockdown I was drinking, eating and smoking more than usual because I was at home.

"Then at Christmas I found out that I was going to be a grandma for the first time and this was the push that I needed to quit.

"From New Year I stopped smoking, started walking, did dry January and now I’m in my third month of being smoke free and I feel great.

“Getting support to help you stop smoking is important and the tips about keeping busy and changing your routine are really helpful.

"Also, letting people know that you are trying to quit is a good idea, so that they can encourage you and help you to keep going.

Now I feel so much better and I can look forward to being a fitter, healthier grandma come the summer.”

Herefordshire’s Stop Smoking Service offers free personal support to people living in the county and anyone registered with a Herefordshire GP practice.

You can self-refer to the service by emailing hlts@herefordshire.gov.uk or calling 01432 383567.

You can find out more by visiting Herefordshire’s WISH website www.wisherefordshire.org/smoking.

The NHS also offers a wide range of support on their website www.nhs.uk/live-well/quit-smoking/

and there’s also a free Personal Quit Plan available at www.nhs.uk/smokefree.

Acting director of Public Health in Herefordshire Dr Rebecca Howell-Jones added: “It’s great to

hear from people like Carol who have given up smoking and found such benefits.

"Whilst giving up smoking is tough, people tell us it is easier with help from Herefordshire’s Stop Smoking Service and the NHS.

"Covid-19 has shown us all how important it is to look after our health.

"Even if you have tried before, I would urge every smoker to try again, and with our help give it a

go.

"As Carol says, you might just feel great and it will save you money too!”