The NHS in Cumbria is urging people to quit smoking to improve the health of our community.

They are endorsing Stoptober which will be running for it's 10th year.

Over the last decade, 2.3 million people have stopped smoking as part of the Stoptober campaign but here in Cumbria we are still above the national average for smoking.

Sara Mason, Lead Oxygen Nurse, said: "The reality is that smoking is still the leading cause of premature death, with almost 75,000 preventable deaths a year and can lead to a whole range of other conditions.

"Quitting is one of the best things that you can do for your health and your body will start to change and recover almost instantly, just after 20 minutes your pulse rate will already be starting to return to normal and after 8 hours your oxygen levels are already recovering.

"The harmful carbon monoxide level in your blood will have reduced by half."

There are of course many benefits to your physical health by choosing to quit smoking.

But most people are unaware that it can actually improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Quitting smoking can improve your mood and reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

The NHS say that you will be able to save money as well as breathe better and move better, there really are many benefits to giving up the habit.

Evidence shows that you can stop smoking for 28 days, you are 5 times more likely to stop for good.

The NHS offer lots of tools on how you can quit smoking and they recommend downloading their app.

The app will offer smokers with extra support and it includes quitting streaks and a classic snake game.

They have also offered a list of tips to make your quitting journey as easy as it can be.

It is suggested that you pick a date to quit and add it to your calender.

Then make a list of reasons to do so and also tell people that you'll be quitting.

If you've quit smoking before remember what worked for you in the past and use smoking aids.

Have a plan if you're tempted to smoke and list your triggers and how to avoid them.

Keep busy to make sure your cravings stay at bay by exercising or working.

It is also suggested that you throw away all of your cigarettes before you start the process.