AROUND one in 10 people living in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole smoke, new figures suggest. 

Recent figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show 10.7 per cent of residents in the conurbation regularly smoke. 

This is below the average number of people who smoke across England, with the survey showing 11.6 per cent of people do it. 

Ash chief executive Hazel Cheeseman said: “Today’s figures are further proof that the country is ready to be smoke-free. 

“Despite the progress there is still much to be done. Our poorest communities continue to pay the price for tobacco company profits, as do our public services and economy. 

“Alongside creating a smoke-free generation, the Government must maintain the commitment of the last government to invest in support to help the six million people currently smoking to quit.” 

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “The Tobacco and Vapes Bill will protect future generations from the harms of tobacco and nicotine, saving thousands of lives and easing pressures on the NHS. 

“By building a healthier society, we will help to build a healthy economy.”