A HYPNOTIST will be using mind games to help smokers quit the habit.

Peter Powers will be holding a free seminar in the Excel centre on Wednesday, National No Smoking Day, and is inviting all smokers to come along.

He said he will demonstrate how he has the ability to influence people's minds and believes he will stop many people smoking on the night.

Astley Bridge-born Peter, aged 37, first used his powers to help people in Bolton quit the habit in 1986.

Peter said: "Not only will people give up smoking, but also it will be effortless and easy. People can expect to feel more calm, relaxed, with reduced stress."

Peter, who now lives near Rochdale, is a well-established hypnotist and has had a television show in Australia. In October, he will address 10,000 people in New Zealand to perform the largest stop smoking event in the world.

He also helped Bolton Wanderers to promotion when he combated the mind games of Uri Geller who was trying to help Reading in a play-off final.

The National No Smoking Day free seminar will be followed by weekly free sessions at the Excel centre, on Lower Bridgeman Street.

Peter is asking for people to make a contribution for Cancer Research at the sessions.

The event starts at 7.30pm. If you are unable to attend Peter can give advice by calling him on 01706 371689.