A CHARITY has produced a 10-step guide to quitting smoking as thousands of smokers in Worcestershire prepare to give up for July 1, when the ban on smoking in public enclosed places comes into force.

The British Heart Foundation's advice for successfully stopping smoking are:

1. Make a date. Circle the date on your calendar and make an action plan.

2. In the bin. Get rid of all your smoking accessories.

3. Be inspired. Talk to others who have quit successfully. Their experience will give you encouragement.

4. Drink up. Drink six to eight glasses of water a day.

5. Spotting triggers. Everyone has his or her own reason to smoke - it might be in the pub, after a meal or when you are stressed. Get some tips on recognising what yours might be and how to ignore them.

6. Don't be alone. Stop smoking groups run by the NHS are an effective way to take the first steps towards giving up.

7. Join the community. Share your achievements and frustrations at www.bhf.org.uk/smoking.

8. Change your routine. Stop going to the shop where you bought your cigarettes and avoid places where you would normally smoke.

9. Treat yourself. Put money aside that you normally spend on smoking to buy something special.

10. One day at a time. Every day you spend without cigarettes is good for you, your heart, your health, and your family and friends. But if you do lapse, learn from the experience - you didn't fail, you just need more time!

BHF regional director Claire Goodman said: "Giving up smoking is the single biggest thing you can do to improve your heart health, but we know it's not easy.

"This summer offers smokers in Worcestershire probably the best chance they have ever had to quit."