Outdoor play areas throughout Ceredigion are to become smoke-free place.

Ceredigion County Council say it is committed to ensuring all its play areas become smoke free places and there has been an overwhelming positive response from community, town councils and local housing associations who want to support the scheme.

Local schoolchildren have taken part in a county wide artwork competition to design a smoke-free play area sign, which was won by Eileen Brendler-Spaeth from Comins Coch primary school.

She and fellow pupils’ helped officials launch the smoke-free play area initiative on March 25.

Cllr John Adams-Lewis, Chairman of Ceredigion County Council said: "It is hugely important for children to be able to enjoy fresh air whilst playing in Ceredigion’s play areas. We are very grateful for the cooperation of all involved and in particular to Hywel Dda Public Health Team for their financial support, which has helped take this important step forward in Ceredigion.”

Elen de Lacy, Chief Executive of public health charity ‘Action on Smoking and Health in Wales’, welcomed the launch of the smoke-free playground initiative in Ceredigion.

She said: "It is excellent news that play areas in Ceredigion will now be safer environments for children as a result of this decision to make play areas smoke-free. Children and young people have a right to play and meet with their friends in a clean environment, free not only from the dangers of second hand smoke but also cigarette litter. Having signage in place helps empower people and children to ensure that these places are kept smoke-free.”