CLASSES to help parents prepare for the birth of their baby are being held in Hartlepool.

Mothers-to-be in the SureStart Central area of the town can attend the sessions with their husband, boyfriend or birthing partner.

The meetings are run by community midwife Judith Tindall who answers questions and offers advice on pregnancy, delivery and preparing for the early days with a new baby.

There are four sessions covering diet and exercise, changes to the body, relaxation techniques, labour and the birth, non-normal labour and pain relief, baby care, breast feeding, bathing and baby massage.

The ante-natal sessions are held on Tuesdays between 6.30pm and 8.30pm at Chatham House in Chatham Road. To book a place or to find out more, contact Judith on (01429) 287006.