LENT has meant more than temporary abstinence from cigarettes for users of a Kidderminster day centre.

Five staff and clients at the Edward Parry Centre, for people suffering from mental health problems, have quit the weed for the last six weeks. Specialist quit-smoking adviser Pauline Everitt (left) helps Helen Cooper, Jon Crane and Robin Smith stay off the weed.

With the help of nicotine replacement therapy products - patches and gum - they are keen to make it a permanent venture.

Worcestershire Health Authority specialist quit-smoking adviser Pauline Everitt said: "I must say, I am very proud of them.

"It was not easy for some of them to quit but a group setting is one of the best ways to do it and we had a lot of laughs along the way."

Anyone wanting more information about joining a quit-smoking group in their area should call 01905 760222.