Councillor stubs out the habit

Newly-elected Herefordshire councillor Mark Hubbard has taken advantage of the new legislation where smoking is only allowed outside enclosed public places or in private homes and decided this would be the perfect time to stub out his own smoking habit.

Councillor Hubbard, who represents the Central ward on Herefordshire Council, is also hoping kicking cigarettes will make his regular cycle rides up the hill to the council’s headquarters at Brockington easier.

Having to stand outside to smoke when attending council meetings and socialising was one of the main reasons for giving up smoking when the new legislation came into force on July 1 but he is also hoping he will be able to breathe more easily and avoid many of the long-term health problems associated with smoking.

Councillor Hubbard has the support of an ex-smoker as a mentor and has plumped for nicotine replacement patches to help combat the withdrawal symptoms.

He said: "I am at the end of day three, and while I can't say the experience is a delight, I am amazed at how quickly my breathing has cleared of the morning gunky feeling and background cough. I did the hill up to Brockington twice in one day for two badly spaced meetings and there's no doubt about it being easier."
 
Councillor Hubbard’s progress will be monitored and regular reports posted on the website, www.herefordshire.gov.uk

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Press release issued: July 6 2007