A NEW service has been launched at 60 pharmacies in Worcestershire to help people stop smoking.

Under the free scheme, funded by Worcestershire Primary Care Trust, pharmacies will offer drop-in services for smokers' personal six-week support programmes.

Julia North, manager of the Smoking Advice Service, said "This new service will provide an excellent additional choice in ways to quit with support.

"Because pharmacies are in the community, they are very accessible and open at convenient times.

"Smokers are four times more likely to quit with the support of the local NHS stop-smoking service, and quitting smoking is the single most important thing you can do for your health."

If nicotine replacement products are needed, participants will receive them for a prescription fee of £6.85, which is cheaper than buying them over the counter.

The service's Lesley Watts said: "It is a massive saving and of course they won't have to pay anything if they don't pay for their prescriptions."

Smokers can choose from a variety of products to help them quit, including an inhalator, nasal spray, microtabs, lozenges, gum and patches and will be given supplies to help them get through.

To qualify for the scheme, which is launched on Sunday, July 1, you must be registered with a GP practice in Worcestershire.

For details about participating pharmacies or more information call 01905 760222.