The dry, still weather has caused pollution levels in the east and centre of the city to increase to more than eight times the Government's daily average target.

Neil Parry, of the East End Quality of Life project, which monitors pollution across the city, said: "Many people will want to get outside and enjoy this fine sunny weather, but it has hidden dangers for people with health problems.

"Pollution levels in some parts of the city have been above the Government's target for days and this could trigger problems for people with existing health complaints."

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Last week, levels of nitrogen dioxide and other toxic gases soared to 323 micrograms per cubic metre of air during rush hour in Lowfield, on the edge of the city centre - eight times the Government's daily average target of 40mg.

In Tinsley, levels peaked at 251 mg per cubic metre - and have remained at about 50 mg per cubic metre for several days in a row. Parts of Heeley and the city centre have also suffered from high pollution levels. It is believed Sheffield is currently suffering its highest levels of pollution for over a year.

The Met Office says the dry, still weather will last until Thursday, when wetter weather will push in from the west.

Sue Greig, consultant in public health at Sheffield Primary Care Trust, said: "Poor air quality is more likely to have its worst effects on people who are already susceptible to respiratory problems or cardiovascular disease, and on those whose age makes them vulnerable, such as children and old people."

Sheffield Council operates eight continuous monitoring stations, which have all recorded high levels of fine particle pollutants over the past few weeks.

Care4Air, the South Yorkshire air quality awareness campaign, said the pollution should not cause health problems, but encouraged people to help reduce the high levels during the coming weeks.

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