A CAERPHILLY council employee was given a special rugby-related surprise after kicking his smoking habit in to touch.

Simon Wedge joined thousands of smokers on the national Stoptober challenge to try and stop smoking for 28 days in October.

Mr Wedge successfully completed the challenge to quit smoking and has since met members of the Welsh Rugby Union squad at the Vale Resort near Cardiff as a reward for his efforts.

He'll watch Wales take on Australia in next month’s Autumn International.

He said: “Reaching day 28 of Stoptober feels amazing. I’ve got so much more energy now and I really feel like I have the drive now to stay smoke free.”

“I’m really looking forward to going to this game and watching Wales play, and I’m also looking forward to a smoke free future.”

Cllr David Poole, Caerphilly council’s cabinet member for community and leisure services, said: “I would like to congratulate Simon on this fantastic achievement. From speaking to Simon and watching his video diary I know that he has seen numerous benefits since taking the decision to stop smoking, and I am sure that he will continue to stay strong and stay off cigarettes for good.”