A WOMAN who lost a leg due to complications from diabetes and heavy smoking is urging people to stub out cigarettes for good.

Pearl Davies was a smoker for decades, regularly lighting up more than 30 times a day.

However Mrs Davies, from Whitehawk, Brighton has finally managed to give up following a warning from her doctor.

The 52-year-old had her leg amputated six years ago but she continued to smoke and was having more and more problems with her blood circulation.

She said: “A few months ago the doctors told me I had to give up smoking or risk losing my other leg. I knew it was time to take action.”

Mrs Davies gave up smoking through a community support scheme funded by Brighton and Hove City Council’s public health team.

It is specially targeted at people who have a long term health condition and are housebound.

O’Flinn’s pharmacy in Islingword Road supported Mrs Davies with weekly home visits.

Speaking ahead of the launch of the annual national Stoptober campaign, Mrs Davies said: “The pharmacist gave me nicotine patches and chewing gum, but I found I was able to stop using them after three or four weeks.

“I wanted to do it so much, and it’s amazing how much better I feel. I’ve not had the slightest temptation to start smoking again.

“I use a wheelchair and I’m not getting out of breath pushing myself around like I used to.

“I got all my clothes, bed linen and curtains washed when I gave up.

“I love the fact that my home doesn’t smell of smoke anymore and that my grandchildren aren’t breathing in smoke when they come over.

“Smoking isn’t just a filthy habit, it’s expensive as well. I’ve loved being able to give my grandchildren a few more treats with the money I’ve saved.

“To anyone who’s thinking of giving up smoking, I’d say definitely go for it. Just give it up. You need willpower but there is also great support available.

“If I can do it anyone can.”

Pharmacist Kauser Essaji, who owns O’Flinns, said: “ We know giving up can be difficult.

“However if you’re housebound we will assess you at your home and agree not just a starting date but also a plan for which products and strategies will be best for you.

“We then follow this up with weekly visits, and also keep in touch by phone.

“As well as nicotine patches there are inhalers, lozenges, gums and nasal sprays. With all the different products and support that’s now available it’s never been easier to give up.”

More details about stop smoking services in Brighton and Hove are available at brighton-hove.gov.uk/stop-smoking or by calling 01273 296877.