Big Cig is to take on the might of the Army in a battle at Forth Valley Royal Hospital to mark No Smoking Day on Wednesday March 12th 2014. Recruits from the TA are hoping to knock out the 5 ft tall fake cigarette with his toxic tobacco talents and achieve V for Victory – the theme of this year’s campaign which has been chosen to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the first world war.

The mock ‘fight’ will take place in the foyer area where a member of staff from the Stop Smoking Service, dressed in a Big Cig costume will parade throughout the area. The part-time soldiers will wrestle with the cigarette in a bid to stub out its efforts to make smoking appear attractive. Staff from the Stop Smoking Service will also join the attempt, handing out details of how to quit.

Gillian Bruce, NHS Forth Valley Smoking Cessation Specialist Nurse said:

Giving up smoking is one of the most important lifestyle decisions leading to better health. By letting people know about services to help them quit will reduce the number of tobacco-related illnesses across Forth Valley. It is also very important that we try to protect the next generation from starting to smoke and give them the best start in life.

Gillian and her Stop Smoking colleagues will also be available on social media between 2 and 3pm on the day to answer questions and provide information and advice on local services. Simply visit www.facebook.com/nhsforthvalley to ask a question on Facebook, or find them on Twitter @NHSForthValley , using #askFV when you post.