Nearly one in every four adults in Sittingbourne and Sheppey is a smoker, according to a charity.

The British Heart Foundation’s latest statistics show that around 23% of local adults smoke – above the national average of 18%.

It can be incredibly difficult to give up, but one person who managed to do so – despite smoking for nearly five decades – is Sheerness resident Richard Boosey.

The 65-year-old, of Wellesley Road, had his first cigarette when he was about 15 but managed to give up four years ago after getting help from the NHS Stop Smoking Service.

Healthier

The grandfather-of-eight, who suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, said: “I had tests done at the hospital and my breathing tubes are down to 47%.

“Now [after giving up] I’ve got more money in my wallet and I’m finding it much easier to get about, I’m much healthier.”

He advised anyone who wants to give up to seek help from the stop smoking services, which are offered by the Kent Community Health NHS Trust.

Studies have shown that smokers are four times more likely to kick the habit with help from the programme than if they go it alone.

Noreen Searles, who runs the support groups on the Island as well as other parts of east Kent, said: “Sometimes people have been smoking from a young age, it’s not unusual.

“Everyone is obviously an individual and it depends what type of intervention will help each person. Some people like the group support and others prefer one-to-one sessions.

“We let them know what we can do and they choose accordingly.

“It’s very rewarding and people are always very pleased to quit smoking, so there’s a great sense of achievement.”

Natalie Meehan, Stop Smoking Service team leader in Sheppey, said they have helped more than 60,000 people to quit smoking in Kent.

Advisers offer sessions in Swale at Seashells Children’s Centre, Sheerness, Faversham Health Centre and Sittingbourne Memorial Hospital for those aged 12 and above.

For those who want to cut down gradually before quitting, the team also offers a 20-week programme called Cut Down to Quit in Swale.

Nicotine replacement products, such as patches, strips, chewing gum and medicine are available for the cost of a prescription charge, or free for those who don’t have to pay.

If you want to give up smoking, call the local NHS Stop Smoking Service on 0300 123 1220 or text QUIT to 87023.