SMOKING could be banned in the grounds of hospitals in Huddersfield and Halifax.

The Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Trust plans to stub the habit out.

Mark Partington, its acting director of operations, said the NHS should adopt a smoke-free policy inside and outside hospitals.

It will mean an end to scenes such as those outside Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, where patients in dressing gowns gather to smoke.

Mr Partington said: "We should take a lead in promoting the no smoking message and become smoke- free throughout buildings and grounds. It is the duty of the NHS to demonstrate leadership."

There are smoking shelters in the grounds of the Infirmary and the Calderdale Royal Hospital in Halifax.

Mr Partington said: "Cigarette ends are prevalent in these areas and cleanliness standards are hard to maintain."

The trust's chairman, Gordon McLean, said: "People come to hospital to get well. But all too often I have seen patients hovering near the entrance with a cigarette in one hand and a drip in tow. It does not give the right impression."

Talks on a ban will now take place and quit-smoking services within the hospitals will be extended.