Smokers can get help to quit with a device linked to their mobile developed by a manufacturer in Kent.

Bedfont Scientific has adapted its Smokerlyzer, a breath monitoring instrument, to test the level of carbon monoxide in a patients blood and display the results on a smartphone or tablet.

The app gives instant readings allowing quitters to track their progress.

Linked to the new iCO Smokerlyzer, it aims to save patients money by allowing them to do their own monitoring rather than having to consult a specialist.

Bedfont, based near Maidstone, hopes to capture a large share of the US and UK market with the product, which it first developed 30 years ago.

“We have traditionally manufactured our high volume products in China and this is the first of the range to be built here in Kent..." - Jason Smith, Bedfont Scientific

The company forecasts turnover to grow to £10 million in the next two years, creating an additional 14 jobs in its Harrietsham headquarters by 2018.

It has chosen Destra Engineering, based in Ashford, to manufacture the device. The Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) introduced the two companies.

Bedfont Scientific general manager Jason Smith said: “We have traditionally manufactured our high volume products in China and thanks to MAS, this is the first of the range to be built here in Kent.

“This will undoubtedly provide greater control over quality and supply; bringing benefits to both companies.”

Destra Engineering director Sarah Williams said: “Bedfont Scientific is one of two new customers in the last eight months and we are working on five new products.

“We are enjoying a return of our clients to UK manufacturing. Our customers are pleased with our quality and value-added services and our moulding prices are very competitive with the Far East.”