Lessons on living SmokeFree

June 1, 2004 - PRESS RELEASE

Lessons on living smokefree

Lessons on the dangers of smoking prompted pupils at one Liverpool school to raise more than £800 to ensure they enjoy a smokefree future.

Pupils at Belvedere School raised the money for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation and its bid to make Liverpool smokefree after staff from the charity visited the school.

Head of the Junior Department, Miss Jeanette Bidder-Potts, said the children were so impressed with what they learned about the Foundation's work.

"After a discussion between staff, the children chose to raise money for the Roy Castle Appeal in order to contribute to Smoke Free Liverpool's drive to stop smoking in public places by Capital of Culture year in 2008.

"Cancer and smoking related illness touches everybody, and by raising money for the appeal we can approach the issue of smoking in a sensitive way that is appropriate to the ages of our pupils," she added.

Pupils raised money through a series of events over the past year including making and selling novelty items in school, taking part in organised games and activities, non-uniform day, a sponsored fancy dress and a sponsored read on World Book Day.

"Smoking looks bad and people throw cigarettes on the floor and it makes a real mess of the city centre. It is horrible breathing smoke in and it should be banned," said nine-year-old Anumita Dhulipala.

A view shared by fellow pupil Laura Erskine, also nine.

"Smoking smells bad and it is horrible having to breathe it in, and smoking people spoil parties. People on TV should stop because they might make other people do it. Famous people should set a good example."

Chris Owens, Co-ordinator for Smokefree Liverpool, praised the school's efforts.

"Smokefree Liverpool recognises the wonderful efforts made by the children in raising this money. The work of Smokefree Liverpool will ensure than none of these children will be exposed to second hand smoke in their workplaces when they grow up."

For further information and photographs contact Richard Kenyon at Kenyon Fraser on 0151 706 9993.

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