Derby County is supporting an inspiring new campaign that gives the public the chance to stub their cigarettes out for good through Derbyshire County Primary Care Trust's Stop Smoking Service.
"You'll smell better, look better and feel better" is the motivational message behind the Life is better campaign which is rolling out across the county.
The integrated campaign is currently being rolled out across the bus network, outdoor advertising and a targeted direct mail campaign combined with events at five fixtures at the Derby County where advisors will be on hand to assist match attendees who want to stop smoking.
At the Rams' recent home game against Sunderland, a half-time penalty shoot-out took place to help promote the campaign.
Smokers looking to kick the habit were given the chance to compete against each other to win a signed Rams shirt and raise awareness of the campaign.
A club spokesman said: "We are actively promoting the campaign and supporting the PCT because health and fitness are important to every team player.
"Stopping smoking will give you a better life - you will feel fitter and healthier - maybe even having enough energy to play a game of football!"
Rams supporters attending the Sunderland match had the chance to get advice from Derbyshire County Stop Smoking Service advisors at Pride Park Stadium- without needing to call or text the service.
The event gave the campaign a healthy injection of pace following recent news that 20% more people have contacted the Service since the launch in January compared to this time last year.
Having realised how difficult it is to make the first step to kick the habit, Derbyshire County PCT has set up an innovative text service for those who do not feel confident enough to pick up the phone.
Doctor David Black, director of public health, said: "The aim of the campaign is to encourage people to change their behaviour for the better.
"There is a lot of information out there about how smoking harms your body- but we want to tell people how life is better once you have stopped."
Derbyshire County Stop Smoking Services are available across the county (excluding Derby City).
For your local stop smoking service please contact 0800 085 22 99, or text BETTER4 to 81025.
Alternatively, more information can be found via www.lifeisbetter.info.
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