Conquest smoking ban

From Monday no-one will be allowed to smoke anywhere on any of East Sussex Hospitals Trust's premises.

David Philliskirk, director of facilities, said: "It is now vital that we have the support of both public and staff.

"Getting used to change can be difficult so please give a gentle reminder to anyone you see lighting up.

"Unfortunately, the NHS does not have the money to have extra security guards patrolling the grounds to find smokers.

"That is why we really need you to play your part."

In seven days time, not only will the trust be going Smoke Free, but a whole wave of smokers will be planning to kick the habit.

Sue Bliss, Stop Smoking advisor from Hastings and Rother Primary Care Trust (PCT), said: "Creating a smoke free environment provides an excellent opportunity to break the habit.

"The NHS Smokefree campaign has recently launched a new website '“ www.justgiving.com/smokefree which allows quitters to create their own personalised sponsorship web page.

"They can then ask family and friends to sponsor them to give up smoking for good, with the money raised going to the quitter's charity of choice.

"It's hoped that this will really encourage more people to quit in 2007."

For information on giving up smoking contact the PCT's line on 01424 457153.