A trip to a men’s health event organised by the Newcastle United Foundation provided the added inspiration and support that Michael Straker needed to finally stop smoking.

Michael of Ashington, had also discovered suspected blood clots around this time and had decided he wanted to quit smoking to improve his health.

Michael added: “When you find out news like that it gives you a big warning that perhaps now is the time to do something about your health. Luckily my mate and I went along to an excellent event organised by the Newcastle United Foundation. It was here that I was able to meet the NHS Stop Smoking Service.

“They gave me the support and treatment I needed to give up. I tried some patches at first but they weren’t for me. I’ve finally been able to give up using the plastic capsules (inhalator).”

Michael had previously tried quitting in his 30 plus years of smoking but this time the support he accessed really made the difference to help him to achieve his aims.

Footy mad Michael now plays football and visits the gym regularly, and he has seen his health and fitness dramatically improve.

He added: “I couldn’t run for two hours before but now I can. I’m also walking a lot better in general. I would recommend anyone who wants to quit smoking to do so as soon as possible for the sake of your health.

“The financial benefits are great too. I don’t know how I managed to afford to smoke so much before.”

Like his beloved Newcastle United, this year is looking much brighter for Michael.

Alison Nichol, manager of the NHS Stop Smoking Service in Northumberland, said: “Stopping smoking can be quite a scary thing to do and most people benefit from support. NHS stop smoking advisors are trained to support smokers in the way that is most suited to them.

“We always welcome back anyone who has been to the stop smoking service before and not succeeded – you don’t always succeed on your first attempt, but the key is to give it another go.”

There are lots of different ways you can access free NHS stop smoking support.

Dr Sue Gordon, executive director for public health at NHS North of Tyne, working on behalf of Newcastle and North Tyneside Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) and Northumberland Care Trust, said: “There is lots of help and support available for them and I hope as many smokers as possible will take the opportunity and quit for good.”

To find your nearest stop smoking session contact the NHS Northumberland Stop Smoking Service on 01670 813 135.

Ends

Pictures attached: Michael Straker

Katie Pringle

Communications special project officer
NHS North of Tyne
Bevan House
Tel: 0191 217 2814
Email: katie.pringle@northtyneside-pct.nhs.uk
Website: www.northoftyne.nhs.uk