Yesterday was national No Smoking Day, which has added importance for us in Swindon. One of the Council Vision’s 30 Pledges is to reduce smoking prevalence to less than the England average. The good news is that we’re on track to achieve this.

Although some might dismiss this as more meddling by a nanny state, I believe they are wrong. Smoking, and the cancer causing chemicals cigarettes and roll-ups contain, are a threat not only to smokers but also those who choose not to do so.

This secondary smoking is a particular risk to children. Whilst the mess from cigarettes stains and makes clothes smell, the discarded butts on the ground turn our streets and shops into less attractive places to visit.

It is because of the harm it does to others that the council and the Government have the right, indeed the duty, to act.

Smoking remains the biggest avoidable cause of premature deaths in the UK, claiming around 285 lives a year in Swindon alone.

That’s a startling figure and, to put it into context, means each year we are losing more people to smoking than our armed forces lost in combat liberating the Falklands.

Along with the unnecessary, tragic deaths, there are many residents suffering life-crippling long-term illnesses as a result.

These debilitating conditions can give smokers many years of suffering as well as placing a huge burden on the NHS and the council’s care teams.

Worst of all, it makes the lives of those smokers and their families almost unbearable.

Even if you are lucky enough not to be so ill, you will find that your general health and fitness decline. Simple physical activities become a struggle, and playing with children or grandchildren is out of the question.

The good news is that it does not have to be like this. If you really would like to stop, I encourage you to seek help.

You can call 0800 3892229 or 01793 465513, text 07881 281797 or email besmokefree@swindon.gov.uk for advice.

You can also visit pharmacies or your local GP for assistance. Getting professional help is proven to significantly improve your chances of success, so don’t be shy.

Such a personal change is never easy, and I accept that the government exhorting you to change does not help.

The experiences of former smokers, however, are a different matter. We have countless examples of those whose lives have been transformed because they quit smoking.

Not only are they healthier, but richer, too. If you smoke, can you think of other ways to spend £3,000 a year? Perhaps a holiday or more money to spend on your favourite hobby, for instance.

The message against smoking is clear: stub it out, and start living again.