A SUPPORT group for mothers who want to breastfeed their babies was launched yesterday.

Monthly meetings to support mothers who want to breastfeed their children take place at St Margaret's Church Hall, in South Street, Durham City.

The group has been set up by the La Leche League and Durham and Chester-le-Street Primary Care Trust.

Yesterday's inaugural meeting covered adjusting to life with a new baby. Further discussions are planned until the end of the year.

Mothers will also be able to access a library of information on breastfeeding during the sessions.

Supporters say that breastfeeding can help a baby's physical and mental development and can protect babies against tummy bugs, chest infections, asthma and allergies.

Susan Walls, the trust's health visiting co-ordinator, said: "The meetings are ideal for learning more about mothering through breastfeeding and making friends with other mothers.

"Breastfeeding is natural, but it is a learned art. Attending the meetings and seeing other mothers breastfeed their babies helps new and expectant mothers learn how to nurture their babies too.

"They also provide time for mother-to-mother sharing in a friendly and accepting atmosphere."

The next meeting takes place at 10am on Tuesday, November 1.