QUITTING smoking could be the best gift to receive this Christmas.

New research shows that about a third of smokers vow to cut down over the festive season.

They see it as a special family occasion when they are mixing more with non-smokers.

Lots of smokers have circled January 1 – or the new year in general – as the time they plan to stop completely.

The survey – carried out for stop smoking services – also showed that smoking is one of the main reasons for family rows.

More than half of smokers believe their habit causes arguments in their relationship, and a further 35 per cent admitted concealing smoking from their partner and inventing reasons to get out of the house for a cigarette.

Sue White, of the North East Essex NHS Stop Smoking Service, said: “The NHS Stop Smoking Service provides people with support and practical advice when they come to us wanting to stop smoking.

“We work to find the right solution for each individual, because everyone has different needs when it comes to quitting.

“If you’re one of the 43 per cent of smokers looking to stop smoking next year, call the NHS Smoking Helpline for your best chance of a successful quit attempt.”

Timothy McShera, of Colchester, stopped smoking with the help of the service in 2005.

He said: “I wished the service and the smoke-free legislation had been around 40 years ago so I could have stopped smoking much earlier.

“Going to the local NHS Stop Smoking Service was the best thing I could have done.

“The advisers were really inspirational.”

l For help and advice, call the North East Essex NHS Stop Smoking Service on 0800 7312 656.