NEW European rules will come into force across the UK next month banning a number of different types of cigarette.

The rules come at the end of a four-year rolling project tightening the regulations on what types of cigarettes can be sold across the European Union.

What does the ban cover?

The charity ASH (Action on Smoking and Health) said the ban will stop the production and sale of any filters, paper, packaging, capsules or other component containing flavouring in cigarettes and hand rolling tobacco.

The ban will outlaw all flavoured cigarettes - including menthol - and flavoured rolling tobacco.

And it will mean an end to skinny cigarettes - sometimes known as slims - and click-dual (two-flavour) cigarettes.

It also extends to 'technical features' which would allow consumers to modify the 'smell, taste, or smoke intensity' of the product.

When does the ban come into affect?

It begins on May 20, 2020.

What have the charity ASH said?

Amanda Sandford, of ASH, said: "It is naturally hard to inhale smoke and for many the first time they smoke it is repugnant, but people persevere with it and that's when they become addicted.

"There is evidence that menthol cigarettes relax the airways and the flavour masks the harshness of the smoke, therefore younger people find it easier to smoke.

"However, it is an absolute myth that menthol cigarettes are better for you.

"All cigarettes are harmful and menthol cigarettes are just as dangerous as normal cigarettes.”

What have the NHS said?

According to the NHS menthol can increase the addictiveness of nicotine.

It explained: “Menthol is an additive that increases the addictiveness of the nicotine, though menthol by itself is not addictive in nature.

“Menthol is a mild anaesthetic that numbs your throat and stimulates cold receptors that creates a cooling sensation.”