THE PERCENTAGE of 15 year olds in the Borders smoking regularly is amongst the highest in Scotland.

Regular smoking by 15 year olds ranges from five per cent to 13 per cent across Scottish local authorities, according to a recently released Scottish Government survey.

However, in the Borders 10 per cent of teenagers light up, with only Fife, Highlands and Dumfries and Galloway having worse figures.

According to the research, the number of 15 year olds smoking in the region has fallen from 15 per cent in 2002, but this is one of the smallest decreases across Scotland.

Local MSP John Lamont (Ettrick, Roxburgh, and Berwickshier) has called on schools and NHS Borders to work in cooperation to make sure youngsters are not only aware of the risks associated with smoking but also what help is available for those looking to kick the habit.

He has also called on the current law, which prohibits the sale of tobacco to under 18s is better enforced.

Mr Lamont said: “Smoking is still a huge public health issue and despite recent progress we are still struggling in the Scottish Borders to stop youngsters sparking up.

“This report indicates that a fairly high percentage of Borders 15 year olds are regular smokers, and I would like to see more done locally to help prevent youngsters from taking it up.

“Smoking can stunt growth and can cause a number of respiratory related health problems and I would encourage the authorities to up their game when educating teenagers about these facts.

“But it is also illegal for retailers to sell tobacco to teenagers and for teenagers to buy cigarettes.

"We also need to make sure the current law is properly enforced and teenagers need to be aware that by buying tobacco products they are risking a criminal record.”