VOLUNTEERS are taking part in a trial to throw away their disposable nappies and use washable ones instead.

The trial in Ferryhill and Chilton is part of Sedgefield Borough Council's real nappy initiative, offering 20 per cent off the purchase price of washable nappies to anyone living in the borough.

Twelve mothers have agreed to try out the range of nappies that are available through the initiative for six months.

The real nappy initiative was launched at Ferryhill Leisure Centre yesterday, at an event hosted by Sedgefield Borough Council and Sure Start.

Mothers were also given the opportunity to find out about baby massage, aromatherapy and new sensory play equipment.

Oliver Priestley-Leach, waste management officer for the borough, said: "Over a thousand tonnes of disposable nappies per year are thrown away in Sedgefield borough alone, at a cost of £30,000.

"It has been suggested that some parts of these nappies can last up to 500 years in landfill sites, so that anything we can do to help people use washable nappies is saving the environment for themselves and for generations to come."

Councillor Lucy Hovvels, lead member for the environment, said: "Using washable nappies can save up to £600 compared with using disposable nappies, therefore families will be saving money as well as contributing to protecting the environment."

People in Sedgefield borough who would like to buy washable nappies at a 20 per cent discount can call Oliver Priestley-Leach on (01388) 816166