Health risks from illegal tobacco

ILLEGAL tobacco in Warrington is putting children’s health and lives at risk according to new research.
Evidence shows that the availability of illegal tobacco is making it easier for children and young people to start smoking.
Half the tobacco bought by 14 and 15 year-olds comes from these sources, and a quarter of young smokers are regularly offered illegal tobacco, which is far more than adults.
Campaigners say dealers target children and young people by selling them single cigarettes, which makes it affordable but also gets them hooked.
They say illegal tobacco is also linked to both low-level and large-scale organised crime, so it helps fund drugs and weapon smuggling, child exploitation and money laundering.
Tobacco Free Futures (formerly Smokefree North West) has launched a campaign to encourage communities to take action against the dealers. The “Keep It Out” campaign aims to raise awareness of the problem.
Warrington director of public health Dr Rita Robertson said: “It is estimated that over 246 people in Warrington die each year of smoking related diseases.
“We need to work together in our communities to stop illegal cigarettes being sold to children so that they don’t become one of these terrible statistics in the future. If you know of anyone selling illegal tobacco, please call Crimestoppers.”
Peter Astley (pictured), of Trading Standards North West, said: “I welcome this campaign as we know only too well that the people selling illegal tobacco are often selling other illegal products such as drugs and weapons.”
Anyone with information about illegal tobacco is encouraged to phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit www.keep-it-out.co.uk