A SOMERSET couple who gave up smoking together are urging others to quit this Stoptober.

Maggie Bradshaw, 68, and Sharon Madgin, 57, had both been puffing away since the age of just 13.

Former police officer Sharon decided to kick the habit when she needed an operation and realised she would recover quicker if she stubbed out the cigarettes and Maggie decided to support her doing the same.

The pair were assisted by the stop smoking service Smokefreelife Somerset.

Maggie said: “I smoked for over 50 years and was a little sceptical that I could give it up. If I can do it, anybody can.

“We received so much help and support, the advisor offered lots of advice and arranged for me to also use stop smoking medicine to help with the cravings.”

Sharon has noticed the benefits to her health and her pocket – she said: “It’s great to be able to put the £80 a month we would have spent on cigarettes into something more healthy and positive.

“We go to the gym three times a week and feel great, our breathing has become easier and our health can only get better.”

Cllr Anna Groskop, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for health, said: “Stoptober provides a fantastic focus for us all to help motivate and support smokers who want to quit.

“More and more people are trying to give up for health and financial reasons, which is good news."

For advice and support contact Smokefreelife Somerset on 0800-2461063 or text QUIT to 66777 or visit www.smokefreelifesomerset.co.uk