WITH spring here New Year's resolutions to keep healthy have become distant memories.

While most of us know our health is important, it takes a bit of thought, time and knowledge to keep in tip-top condition and it can be all too easy to fall into unhealthy habits and lifestyles.

Help is at hand, though, in the form of Vitality, a newly- launched local health and well-being service run by the NHS.

Aimed at everyone living in Thurrock, Basildon, Billericay, Brentwood and Wickford, Vitality has trained advisers to provide support and advice on a range of issues.

The stop smoking service, for example, is just one. The professional advisers provide support and advice.

Henna Ali, trainee health psychologist at Vitality explains: "Our aim is to help people from all walks of life to stop smoking and improve their all-round quality of health.

"We have all sorts of people contact us, from teenagers to people in their eighties, busy working mums, pregnant mums, stressed-out men - everyone in fact.

"Some people simply want a few tips. Others join our stop smoking groups, and nearly everyone wants our help kits. The great thing is Vitality is a free service."

Even if you don't smoke there may be other aspects of your lifestyle you want to change. Vitality offers a range of programmes to help with diet and nutrition, losing or maintaining a healthy weight, cooking for health and a scheme to get the whole family fit.

Henna said: "Once upon a time the odd take-away was a treat. Now, fast foods and convenience meals have become almost daily, and deadly, habits.

"Add to this lack of exercise and the usual daily stresses, and a typical day becomes fraught and unhealthy."

Henna says the Get Ready, Get Set, Get Cooking programme aims to improve cooking skills and produce healthy meals on a budget.

The weight management programme encourages lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity and improving eating habits."

Mend, which stands for Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it! is aimed at helping young people and families to get fit and includes weekly fun games and activities for the whole family.

Alternatively, there are healthy walks which are a great way to get fit and make friends.

Programmes take place in Thurrock, Basildon, Billericay and Wickford with times to suit even the busiest person.

Henna adds: "Most people want to be healthier and happier. Whether you want to tackle one problem, or take a whole look at the way you live, we can help you.".

Call freephone 0800 077 8000 or visit www.lovevitality.org