‘Dodgy Cigs’ roadshow visits Staffordshire

This weekend the Stop Smoking Service will show smokers in Newcastle-under-Lyme they are getting more than they bargain for if they buy ‘dodgy’ tobacco products.

The roadshow, organised by NHS North Staffordshire, will be part of the Midsummer Mayhem event at Lyme Valley Park, Newcastle-under-Lyme on Sunday, 9 August. As well as providing advice for those wishing to stop smoking it will also show smokers the variety of unusual substances they may be inhaling if they buy dodgy cigarettes.

The event is the latest part of a hard-hitting poster and radio advertising campaign from the Department of Health and HM Revenue & Customs highlighting some of the unpleasant ingredients that can be found in illicit tobacco products, such as floor sweepings and animal droppings.

Paul Hooper, regional tobacco policy manager for the West Midlands, said: “Buying cheap cigarettes from a man down the pub or from someone returning from their holidays may seem like a great deal. However, they are often made in unhygienic conditions and can contain ingredients like insects and sawdust. People often say these cigarettes taste different and this unusual mix of ingredients is often the reason why.

“If people are looking to save money it’s better that people explore the help available to stop smoking altogether rather than seek out cheaper alternatives to shop bought tobacco. They might be cheap but they are still a rip off.”

Selling dodgy cigarettes is also illegal and anyone caught dealing in their place of work could find themselves facing disciplinary action or even the sack, with the company also facing punishment.

For more information about illicit tobacco products and how they affect you and you business visit the website at dodgycigs.co.uk.