HEALTH workers had an unusual helper to put across their 'no smoking' message.

They dressed a mannequin in a waiter's suit and gas mask for their display in the Port Arcades on Monday, ahead of national No Smoking Day today.

Janet Jackson, health alliance officer at the borough council, said: 'It shows that he'd be inhaling other people's smoke as part of his job. The national smoking ban will come into effect next summer and will help serving staff like him, as well as customers.

'We had steady interest from the public, a real mixed bag. A Scotsman said how the ban there was not received well, but others said the ban was about time.'

As well as displays and advice, there was a lucky dip and contest with prizes including tickets to the EPIC and Blue Planet Aquarium.

The fire service gave safety tips and offered free smoke alarms.

Health workers will also be at Morrisons in Chester Road, Whitby, from 11am-1pm tomorrow (Thursday); and Neston Market from 9am-2.30pm on Friday.

For details of local stop smoking services, call 0800 132 996.