Thousands of cigarette butts were cleared from around Darlington Memorial Hospital as part of a litter pick aimed at reducing environmental pollution and raising awareness of local stop smoking support services.

The action formed part of Darlington Borough Council's wider commitment to improving environmental sustainability, delivering healthier communities and supporting local people to live well for longer.

Cigarette butts are one of the most littered items in the world with each butt taking up to 10 years to breakdown.

The discarded butts also release toxic chemicals into the environment, pollute waterways, and harm wildlife.

In just 2 hours, an estimated 5,000 discarded cigarette butts were cleared from the hospital site by public health staff from the council and colleagues from Darlington Stop Smoking Hub. 

The number collected is expected to have cost smokers roughly £3,500 and represents around a month of life lost, with each cigarette thought to reduce life expectancy by 11 minutes. 

Lorraine Hughes, director of public health at the council, said: "Quitting smoking is the single best action you can take for better health.  Within weeks, you’ll breathe easier, feel more energetic, and lower your risk of serious illnesses like cancer, heart attack, stroke, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

"Many people also report feeling calmer, happier, and less anxious just a few weeks after quitting. It’s better for your bank balance too and could save you over £2,000 a year!

"Our friendly local stop smoking services are here to help you quit for good - giving you the best advice on how to kick the habit and ease your cravings. Even if you've been unsuccessful in the past - please don’t give up; your next quit attempt could be the one that works and changes your life. It’s never too late!”

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Quitting smoking is one of the most important decisions you can make for your health.

There's never been a better time to stop smoking with more ways to quit available than ever, including medication, vapes and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT).