Smokers in South Gloucestershire can sign up to quit the habit and save themselves hundreds of pounds.

NHS South Gloucestershire said a 20-a-day smoker could save about £2,111 a year if they gave up – a big incentive as families struggle during the credit crunch.

Its new courses run for eight weeks and will be held in Staple Hill and Kingswood.

Both start on Tuesday, June 2, and are free for anyone over the age of 16.

Those taking part will get help from a trained adviser, a personal quit plan and receive nicotine replacement therapy on prescription, as well as support from fellow smokers determined to give up.

Stop smoking adviser Jean Allchorne said: "Last year we helped more than 1,000 smokers in the South Gloucestershire area to quit.

"Research shows that people are four times more likely to succeed with NHS support.

"Those who give up feel real physical benefits almost immediately and they'll be quids in. For someone who smokes 20 cigarettes a day, they'll save more than £2,000 a year if they quit."

The courses will start in Staple Hill Library, The Square, Broad Street, running from 10.30am to 11.30am.

Kingswood Leisure Centre in Church Road, Soundwell, hosts the second from 6pm to 7pm

Further information on booking a place is available by telephoning 0117 330 2439.