SUFFERERS of asthma and other breathing problems can now take advantage of a free new service monitoring air quality. North Herts District Council has joined other councils in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire to subscribe to the airAlert scheme provided by

SUFFERERS of asthma and other breathing problems can now take advantage of a free new service monitoring air quality.

North Herts District Council has joined other councils in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire to subscribe to the airAlert scheme provided by the Herts & Beds Air Quality Network.

Warnings about predicted poor quality air can be sent directly to people who have access to email or mobile phones. They can then make informed decisions about what action to take, such as avoiding certain areas or carrying medication.

Cllr Bernard Lovewell, Portfolio Holder for Housing & Environmental Health at the district council, said: "The tried-and-tested airAlert system gives confidence to many people with breathing problems.

"The Council is very pleased to subscribe to such a worthwhile scheme and we do hope that everyone who could benefit from it signs up without delay."

For more details call 01582 546514, email registrationhertsandbeds@airalert.info or click onto www.airalert.info