HIGH-impact visual displays will be set up to encourage staff, patients and visitors to the Alexandra Hospital to quit smoking.

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust is working closely with the Smoking Advisory Service to provide help and support today, which is national No Smoking Day.

There will also be information on groups set up to help quit smoking available at the hospital and encouragement for those who want to give up the habit.

The trust is also keen to promote the health benefits of giving up under the banner Sick of Smoking.

A trust spokesman said: "Many of our patients suffer from various smoking-related illnesses, a high percentage of our staff smoke and many visitors to the hospital smoke.

"Evidence around quitting smoking points to improved health, less sickness and a better chance of recovery from operations which could in turn ease pressure on bed provision in the future."

The spokesman added: "Additionally, we receive many complaints and expressions of despair because of the smoking litter around the entrance to our hospitals around the county.

"It costs money and time to collect the cigarette stubs and packets and try to keep the hospital entrances and grounds free from smoking debris.

"This resource could be focused internally on wards and corridors."

Meanwhile, a "quit smoking" session starts on March 20th at Kingsley Sports Centre in Woodrow Drive between 6-7pm.

The sessions run for one hour a week for six weeks. To book a place call 01905 760222.