Smokers are being urged to stub out their cigarettes as part of national Heart Day tomorrow. Ernie White, Leicestershire County Council cabinet lead member for health, said: "Giving up smoking is the single biggest positive step you can take to reduce your risk of a heart attack.
"As your circulation improves, you are more able to be active, which increases the positive impact on your health.
"Within three months, walking becomes easier.
"Within a year, your risk of a heart attack is half that of a smoker."
It is estimated that about 3,000 Leicestershire people have heart disease caused by smoking.
Nearly 100,000 adults – 19 per cent – of the county's population are thought to be smokers.
