The Government's new attack on smoking featuring decaying gums on cigarette packets has already made some smokers in Bradford think again.

The new idea came from campaigns in Canada which have proved successful in turning smokers off.

Patricia Hodsgon, co-ordinator for West Yorkshire Smoking and Health, said the new graphic approach would be a boost to addicts wanting to quit.

She said: "We have shown pictures of the effects of smoking to young people before and it has worked in making them realise what can happen to you.

"But it would be even more helpful if packets had helpline numbers for people who want to quit smoking."

She said 80 per cent of young smokers and 70 per cent overall wanted to quit but did not know where to turn.

The response was mixed from smokers in Bradford. Alison Jones, 22, of Eggleston: "I've just stopped. Not because I've seen this picture, but because I know that smoking does that."

Diane Pickard, 35, of Eggleston added: "It will certainly make me think again."

Claire Moffat, 17, from Mirfield was shocked by the poster: "Its disgusting. It would probably open some people's eyes - it scares me. I don't like to look at it."

Vicki Frood, 18, also of Mirfield agreed: "I've been trying to give up. This might make the difference. Its horrible."

Michelle Darnbrough, 36, of Great Horton said: " Yes it's disgusting, but it wouldn't make me stop - just go to the dentist."

And Rizwan Arif, 21, of Girlington said: "Is that what smoking does to your teeth? If I saw that on the packet when I picked it up, I'd put it back."

Anyone wanting to quit can ring the free helpline on 0800 169 0169.

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