SMOKERS in Okehampton are being encouraged to help support a child with cancer by quitting the habit at any point this month.

Children’s charity CLIC Sargent has teamed up with the Devon Stop Smoking Service for a new campaign called Quit for Kids.

The innovative yet simple campaign runs throughout Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September and asks smokers to quit for a length of time of their choice — perhaps a day, a week or a month.

Instead of buying cigarettes or tobacco, participants are asked to donate some or all of the money they have saved to CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children, young people and their families.

Sarah Shaw, fundraising manager for Devon at CLIC Sargent, said: ‘We are delighted that the Devon Stop Smoking Service has decided to support CLIC Sargent.

‘Every £1 you donate through your commitment to stop smoking will allow us to support children and young people with cancer and their families at a time when they need it most.

‘For more information about how your donations will help visit our website at www.clicsargent.org.uk’

Greg Price, manager of the Devon Stop Smoking Service, said: ‘Quit for Kids is a simple campaign designed to give people a boost to stop smoking and help to improve the lives of children with cancer at the same time.

‘It doesn’t matter how long you quit for – even donating the cost of one packet of cigarettes would be fantastic. Please make your pledge today. It could be your first step to a smoke-free life.’

Upon registering you will be sent more information by the Devon Stop Smoking Service which can assist your attempt to quit through e-mail, telephone or face-to-face support.

E-mail and telephone support is available in the evening, as well as during the day.

The stop smoking service is run by Health Promotion Devon, a specialist arm of the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

Greg said: ‘We know that giving up smoking is tough. That’s why we’ll be here for you along the way, with help and advice. If you would like to chat to us for some tips on how to conquer those cravings, or to make an appointment for a face-to-face meeting, please call us on 01884 836024.’

To make a pledge, visit the website www.northdevonhealth.nhs.uk/quitforkids