FREE carbon monoxide testing will be carried out in the foyer at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary as part of No Smoking Day next Wednesday.

Annette Priestley, the specialist tobacco advice officer at the hospital, said the testing was to highlight just how much damage cigarette smoke can inflict - and not just on smokers.

She said: "Even if you have only spent your lunch hour in a pub alongside smokers, the carbon monoxide readings will be significantly higher.

"This year we are not just aiming at smokers who want to quit, we are looking at a wider picture and want to advise non-smokers how they can reduce their risks of the harmful effects of second-hand smoke."

Annette said the results from the simple breath-test can be startling.

During visits to clients' homes, concerned parents have asked for their children to be tested, and have been shocked to find they have given low positive readings through living in constantly smoky air.

Annette added: "Many parents now go into the garden so they don't smoke in front of their children. But the best thing is to stop altogether."

Large amounts of carbon monoxide can kill but small amounts can kill slowly.

When a smoker stops, the levels are back to normal within a week provided they are not exposed to second-hand smoke.

Annette is on 01484 347101 or 07967 136928. Freephone the Huddersfield Smoking Advice Service on 0800 183 2056.