THINKING of quitting cigarettes in time for July's ban? Then today - No Smoking Day 2007 - is the perfect opportunity to do so.

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is urging smokers across Hertfordshire to seize the day and stub out their habits, for both the good of their own hearts and those of the nation.

The foundation wants smokers to make a pledge to quit, and ask their families, friends and colleagues to sponsor them to make sure they stick to their commitment and help raise funds for life-saving research.

Surveys have shown that 70 per cent of smokers want to give up, and with the summer ban on smoking in all pubs, clubs, restaurants and other public places in England approaching, the foundation says there is no better time to give up cigarettes.

This year's No Smoking Day theme, Make a fresh start', is about waking up on No Smoking Day and starting a life free from bad health, bad breath, wasted money and stale smoke.

BHF Hertfordshire fundraising manager Wendy McGauley said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for smokers to make a real change that improves their whole life and the lives of men, women and children in Hertfordshire living with heart disease.

"If you smoke 20 cigarettes a day it will be costing you over £1,800 a year. By giving up you will be saving a fortune as well as saving your life. By collecting sponsorship money for the BHF, hopefully it will make you even more determined to stick to your pledge.

"The money raised will be invaluable in allowing us to continue our lifesaving work - funding pioneering research, patient care and vital information. It is only together we can beat heart disease, for those living today - and tomorrow."

The BHF says that stubbing out for good will mean feeling fitter and more energetic within two weeks, an improved sex life, better skin condition and a healthier bank balance.

For help and advice on how to quit, go to www.bhf.org.uk/smoking

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