Anyone wanting to stop smoking in 2005 has a much better chance of being able to do so than was the case some years ago. Then, not only were would-be stoppers expected to brave the withdrawal symptoms alone, without any back-up, but there was also less of an incentive because the full extent of the health risk to the smokers and those around them was not widely understood.

With smoking blamed for 106,000 premature deaths in the UK each year, surely no-one now can claim not to appreciate the harm it can cause to smokers and to those who inhale smoke second-hand, particularly children. So there is a strong incentive for smokers to try to quit, particularly if they have youngsters in the family.

There is also a new understanding of the need to support those who try to stop, through talking to health professionals, group sessions, nicotine gum and patches.

Now initiatives like the Telegraph & Argus's Clear the Air campaign seem to be paying off. The message is at last getting across. A growing number of people are deciding that smoking isn't for them after all and are seriously trying to do something about it.

In the year to the end of March 7,389 people visited Bradford's Stop Smoking Service, and 44 per cent of them successfully quit. To those 3,317 recovering smokers - well done. Stick with it. Don't be tempted back again. And to those who tried and failed: don't be defeated. Go back for another try, for your sake and that of your families. It will be well worth it when you do succeed.