SMOKERS wishing to quit the habit are being urged by a Richmond yarn shop to try keeping their fingers busy with knitting needles.

KnitOwl in Richmond is hosting weekly ‘KnitQuitin’ sessions over the next seven weeks on Wednesdays from 7pm until 9pm.

For £40 for the full course kits will be provided which will give participants information and encouragement to get started, and a project to knit.

The store, in 76 Frenchgate, run by Deirdre Knibbs, is also hosting a Yarn Shop day on May 3.

Ms Knibbs said: “I will be hosting a tea and treats day and providing free advice and a special discount to mark the occassion.”

There will be another session on the evening of Thursday, May 8.

There are limited places for the KnitQuitin sessions. Book at info@knitowl.co.uk.