Ex-smokers earn money

DOCTORS in the poorest areas of Dundee have come up with a novel way of helping smokers give up.

They are offering reformed smokers taking part in a three month scheme £12.50, a week, if a carbon monoxide test proves they have not smoked.

The money will not be given in cash, but will be placed on a card, and won’t be able to be used for cigarettes and alcohol.

It is hoped that handing over credit to smokers will give them an incentive to give up.

This sounds like a good idea, and I think it will save the NHS money in the long run, because it would probably mean the hospitals would have to treat less smoking related illnesses.

Some people, who gave up last year, have criticised the idea and have said they should be entitled to money too.

I think it would be impossible to backdate the money though, and where do you start.

If the scheme is successful, it could be started across the country. It will be interesting to see what happens.

Meanwhile, I had a go at Dragon boat racing recently at the Marine Lake.

We were the first race on, and despite the strong winds, which caused a big wash on the Lake, our race took place.

It was good fun, although I ended up getting soaked.

Unfortunately the event had to be cancelled soon after our trial and will now take place again in August.