Couple star in new kick-the-habit film

A SOUTH Tyneside couple are starring in a new film to help others quit smoking.

Irene Doyle stubbed out her last cigarette three years ago, after signing up to the NHS’s Stop Smoking Service.

The 52–year–old carer had a 30-a-day habit but decided to stop, along with her partner David Thompson, after both their health and finances began to suffer.

Miss Doyle, of Alice Street, South Shields, said: “It was affecting my health.

“I couldn’t breathe properly and my chest was bad.

“It was also costing a lot.

“After eight years of being off the cigarettes, I couldn’t believe I had started again.

http://www.youtube.com/user/NHSSouthTyneandWear

“Now we both feel so much better and more healthy.

“We are saving money and enjoying life to the full.”

Miss Doyle’s story is being used as part of a roadshow commissioned by NHS South of Tyne and Wear to promote awareness of the NHS’s quitting services.

David Bailey, public health practitioner for NHS South of Tyne and Wear, said: “The roadshow is a great way to engage with people and the real-life stories playing on the video wall really helped to catch people’s attention.”

Miss Doyle added: “I think it really helps people to see a real life story of someone who quit – to help spur them on.

“I also think seeing someone who has lung disease due to smoking is a great deterrent.

“I see people who have chronicle obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through my work as a carer, and it is scary.”

For help in quitting smoking, contact the NHS Stop Smoking Service on 283 1145.

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