HEALTH chiefs are launching four new groups to help smokers quit their habit for the New Year.

The County Durham and Darlington Stop Smoking Service is setting up community-based quit smoking groups in Thornley, Wingate, Fishburn and Wheatley Hill.

The groups will run over 12 weeks until early April.

Products to help smokers quit will be available and participants will be invited to share their experiences with other group members.

Research suggests smokers are four times more likely to quit successfully with NHS help and support.

Places in the groups are available now on a first come, first served basis. Numbers are limited.

For more information or to book, call freephone 08000-113405.