More than 1,500 people have been helped to stop smoking across Great Yarmouth and Waveney in the last 12 months.The figures mean Government-set targets, have been exceeded three months early by NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney's Stop Smoking Team through one-to-one support.

More than 1,500 people have been helped to stop smoking across Great Yarmouth and Waveney in the last 12 months.

The figures mean Government-set targets, have been exceeded three months early by NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney's Stop Smoking Team through one-to-one support.

Vicki Snelgrove, tobacco control commissioning advisor for NHS Great Yarmouth and Waveney, said: “This is absolutely fantastic news. We are so pleased to have helped so many smokers to stop.

“We have more than met the target and have reached 101.9pc of the total numbers set out by the government - which was 1,562. The figures are particularly good as we had until June to reach the target but have already smashed through that goal. We did better than expected in only 75pc of the time allowed.

“We are so proud of our wonderful team who have helped support so many smokers and have done such a great job.”

The Stop Smoking Team offers free support and sessions in the daytime and evening.

Miss Snelgrove added: “We know that one in three adults smoke in Great Yarmouth alone yet smoking is responsible for so many long-term conditions our doctors see everyday.

“Smokers are four times more likely to quit if they use an NHS service. We are keen to do even better next year with the number of people who quit in Great Yarmouth and Waveney.

“Anyone considering stopping smoking can contact us to find out more. The service is free, but smokers can also get nicotine replacement therapy and access to stop smoking medication at the cost of a prescription - just over �7. This is far cheaper than buying your own.”

The Stop Smoking Team is a dedicated service offering flexible support and one to one help. Evening sessions and daytime sessions are offered during a range of times and locations.

Text Quit to 65000 or call 01493 452067.