Havering GPs urged smokers in the borough to kick the habit to mark No Smoking Day.

The national day which aims to encourage people to give up cigarettes is taking place today.

Health professionals in Havering outlined the risks involved in the habit.

Dr Atul Aggarwal, chair of Havering Clinical Commissioning Group, explained that it is one of the “biggest preventable causes of premature death in our borough.”

He added: “About one in every two smokers dying as a result of smoking related diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease and chronic lung disease.

“It affects the whole body and can also lead to increased risk of stroke, gum disease and heart attack.

“Quitting smoking not only has health benefits such as longer life expectancy, it is also a great way to save money.”

For more information on quitting smoking, visit www.nhs.uk/smokefree for a free quit kit which includes practical tools and advice.