A TASK force of breastfeeding mothers equipped with mobile phones have hit the streets in a bid to improve infant health.

The specially-trained women will use the NHS-supplied phones to encourage other women to breastfeed.

In what is believed to be one of the first schemes of its kind in the UK, ten women have been trained as Breastfeeding Supporters to encourage more women to feed their babies as nature intended.

They will offer support to women who may lack confidence, in a part of the UK where breastfeeding rates are low.

Not only does breastfeeding reduce the likelihood of diarrhoea, ear and chest infections in babies, it also reduces the risk of premenopausal breast cancer and osteoporosis in women.

The women will work in the Walker and Cruddas Park areas of Newcastle, which are receiving extra help as part of the Government's Sure Start scheme.

Geraldine Dowling, of Tyne and Wear Health Action Zone, said: "Women who choose to breastfeed often feel isolated and unsupported. This added support will help them continue with their breastfeeding, as they will always have someone to talk to."

Apart from health benefits, breastfeeding means mothers do not have to prepare feeds in the middle of the night, or worry about milk temperatures. It also saves families up to £500 a year.