Smoke free zone soon

In three months, lighting up will not be an option anywhere on the grounds of the hospital.

Posters designed by local schoolchildren have been put up on the walls to remind patients and staff of the new policy, which comes into effect on January 1.

A huge banner informing will also be placed outside the main entrance to the Conquest and at the DGH in Eastbourne.

Smoking results in 114,000 deaths in the UK each year, and even more through the harmful effects of passive smoking.

As a result, East Sussex Hospitals Trust, which runs the Conquest and DGH, is doing everything possible to raise awareness of the Smoke Free campaign.

David Philliskirk, director of estates and facilities, said: "Tobacco smoke is a serious health and safety issue for everyone. For many years, we have only allowed smoking in designated areas.

"I am delighted that we will soon be able to offer everyone who visits us an even safer, fresher environment.

"This awareness campaign is so important because everyone needs to know what's going to happen on January 1. Smoking cessation advisors will be on hand to help people who want to quit and nicotine replacement therapy will be available for both patients and staff."

Linda Brown, clinical matron for medicine, said the posters designed by youngsters have already had a positive impact.

She said: "In every hospital you see so many patients admitted with smoking related illnesses and you hear so many patients saying they wished they'd never started smoking.

"I think the posters and the banners really hit home and I'd like to think they've made a few people think twice before lighting up another cigarette."