CHILDREN'S playgrounds could become smoke free areas in a move designed to stop youngsters being exposed to second-hand smoke and prevent young people from starting to smoke in the first place.

Calderdale Council is currently gathering feedback on the proposal and is planning more consultation on the issue over the next few months before making a final decision.

The authority's cabinet member for public health, wellbeing and engagement, Councillor Simon Young, said: "We are determined that future generations will not suffer the devastating and preventable harm caused by tobacco. One way we want to achieve this is by proposing smoke-free play areas throughout Calderdale, which has been guided by research.

"As a result, playgrounds would be more child-friendly, youngsters would not be exposed to highly toxic second-hand smoke, and they would not see other people smoking – we know children are more likely to start if they see others smoking.

“We are keen to find out what people think of this proposal."