Oldham Athletic supports Stoptober

‘Stoptober’ - the nation’s annual stop smoking challenge

Oldham Athletic and football clubs, players and commentators from across the country, are uniting this weekend to show their support for fans looking to quit smoking as Stoptober – the 28 day smoke free challenge - kicks off on 1 October.

The call comes from football clubs across the country as a new survey reveals that three quarters of football fans who smoke would like to quit (76%), increasing to 83% for the more avid fans who attend at least three football games per season. A strong desire (63%) has also been uncovered from fans for their club to help them kick the habit.

The support from football clubs will be paramount to helping fans embark on the quit smoking challenge as nearly half (48%) believe that the atmosphere around watching football gives them the urge to smoke and 50% would like the option to buy quitting aids at their club.

Wendy Noble, from the Oldham Athletic Community Trust, said: “Oldham are thrilled to be supporting this year’s Stoptober campaign.

"People are encouraged to give up smoking for 28 days throughout the month of October, so we are helping spread the message of the tons of support available for people this year.

"If people are thinking of taking part, search Stoptober online to find out more and massive good luck wishes to all the Oldham fans planning to take part this year.”

The research also uncovered football fans smoking habits; with almost two thirds (62%) lighting up on the way to a match.

People can try quitting using medication (including nicotine replacement therapies such as patches and gum) or e-cigarettes – and seek expert support via face-to-face advice from local stop smoking services. Those who use stop smoking aids and who get face-to-face support from their local stop smoking service are up to four times more likely to quit successfully.

Stoptober has inspired over one million people to make a quit attempt to-date.