SMOKING levels in Barnsley have dropped to their lowest level since records began, it was revealed this week.

The latest figures from NHS England show that smoking rates have dropped from 14.1 per cent last year to 12.5 per cent this year - the second-lowest in South Yorkshire.

The council say that it’s another step towards their goal of reducing smoking rates in the town to less than five per cent by 2030.

This also builds on the record low levels of women smoking during their pregnancy the council recorded earlier this year in Barnsley.

Bosses also relaunched the smoke-free schools initiative with primary schools across Barnsley as part of the Make Smoking Invisible campaign.

Refreshed educational resources will help children and young people learn more about the dangers associated with smoking and vaping, and updated signage will reinforce the message for parents, carers and staff to not smoke or vape on the grounds.

Coun Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: “Reducing smoking rates to below five per cent by 2030 is an ambitious target, but it’s one we’re determined to achieve.

“Make Smoking Invisible is more than a campaign - it’s a movement towards a healthier Barnsley.

“Every smoke-free space, every initiative changing attitudes towards smoking and vaping, and every person who quits smoking brings us closer to that goal.

“We’re committed to making smoking a thing of the past, so it’s great to see that 87.5 per cent of people in Barnsley now don’t smoke.

“Our work won’t stop here, building on our successes to continue bringing our rates down and make sure people can get the right support to quit.”

The Make Smoking Invisible campaign also includes a growing number of voluntary smoke and vape-free areas across the borough, such as the Armed Forces Walkway, play parks, high streets and Pals Square outside the town hall.

The council recently partnered with South Yorkshire Police to make the area around their town centre police headquarters smoke and vape-free.

This initiative is now expanding to all Barnsley police stations, with a request for both staff and the public to refrain from smoking or vaping on or near the premises.

Last month, Barnsley College also installed new signage to reinforce this commitment to making their sites smoke and vape-free.

These voluntary zones are creating a supportive, healthy environment for their students, staff and visitors.

David Akeroyd, principal and CEO at Barnsley College, said: “The clear signage at Barnsley College stating that we are a no smoking or vaping site sends a strong message, encouraging a healthier and more respectful environment for all.

“It sets a positive example and supports our learners in making better decisions for their wellbeing and future.”