A new air quality alerts service has launched across the UK.

People will be able to sign up for alerts to check local pollution levels through accurate, up-to-date information. They can select an area and receive an alert by SMS or email when air pollution is expected to be high.

Having timely information about pollution levels could help people make informed decisions about their activities and take steps to reduce their exposure, especially those who may be more vulnerable due to respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

The service tracks five key pollutants: Particulate Matter (PM2.5), Particulate Matter (PM10), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Ozone (O3) and Sulphur dioxide (SO2).

This is part of wider government action to tackle air pollution and protect public health.

Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle said: "We want everyone to have access to clear, reliable information about the air they breathe.

"This new service will make it easier for people to understand air pollution in their local area and take practical steps to protect their health, particularly those living with conditions such as asthma.

"Better access to air quality information is another way this government is tackling air pollution and protecting people’s health."

Chief Medical Officer for England Professor Sir Chris Whitty said: "Air pollution is an extremely important, solvable health problem that causes ill health throughout the life course, from poor pregnancy outcomes through childhood lung disease to causing long-term health conditions including cancers, heart disease and stroke.

"The health impacts are greatest for the most vulnerable - children, pregnant women and people with preexisting cardiovascular or lung conditions."