Celebrity builder Tommy Walsh has urged smokers to quit and donate the money they save to help build schools in some of the poorest countries around the world.

The new campaign QUIT 2 Build is being launched by QUIT a UK charity that helps smokers to stop, and the charity Build A School.

The campaign is also backed by investigative reporter Donal Mcintyre. Smokers can view his and Tommy’s messages of support, and donate online at www.quit2build.com


Director of Services at QUIT, Ruth Bosworth said: “Smokers are usually amazed once they work out how much money they have spent on cigarettes over the course of their smoking habit. Those who quit will often treat themselves with some of the money they have saved by not buying cigarettes. By quitting and donating to the QUIT 2 Build campaign, smokers will not only improve their own quality of life, but also that of some of the poorest children in the world.”

Chairman of Build A School, Luke Dolby said “This is a fantastic campaign, where not just the quitter benefits from quitting smoking. The cost of just one packet of cigarettes is enough to buy a 50kg bag of cement for a school abroad. We hope this is an extra incentive to help smokers stay a quitter."

Smokers who want to quit can access free help and advice by calling Quitline 0800 002200, or by visiting www.quit.org.uk

(SP)