During the Saturday morning meetings, which are being run by Newcastle and North Tyneside Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) people will be offered help from stop smoking experts and nicotine products such as patches, gum, lozenges and inhalators.

Evidence shows that one-to-one encouragement is the most effective way to quit smoking, with people being up to four times more likely to stop smoking if they get specialist help and support compared to going it alone.

Sally Faulkner, North Tyneside PCT's health promotion specialist in tobacco and smoking, said: "There has never been a better time for people to make the decision to quit the habit.

"With nicotine replacement therapy and specialist advisers on hand I hope as many people as possible will take advantage of the help and support these sessions will be providing."

People wishing to quit have good reason to do so as studies have revealed that smoking is the single greatest cause of preventable illness and premature death in North Tyneside.

If you wish to get involved, the sessions are being held every Saturday until September 6 from 9am to 11.30am at Il Forno Restaurant (patio area) at Tynemouth Metro Station Terrace.

Anyone one who would like more information or to access your local stop smoking services telephone (0191) 219 5111.