Some people will already be struggling to maintain their New Year’s resolution to get fit, stop drinking, stop smoking or to eat healthier.

To help you get through the initial difficulties that come with such pledges, the chair of Havering Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and local GP Dr Atul Aggarwal has offered some advice.

He said: “As GPs, we recommend setting yourself realistic targets so that you have more chance of success in the long term.

“Cutting down on your alcohol intake, stopping smoking or looking at your diet helps to reduce the risks of developing serious long term health problems. Deciding to improve your lifestyle can seem daunting, but making the decision to change is often the most difficult part.”

Dr Aggarwal also suggests taking part in Cancer Research UK’s Dryathlon campaign – where participants give up alcohol for the month of January.

He added: “For advice on what you can do to improve your physical health or if you’re looking for more information on services in your local community, contact the council.

“If you are worried about a specific health problem don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your local GP.”

Further advice can be found on the NHS Change for Life website.