The new life massage at Matfen Hall Hotel's spa proved the ideal treat for mum-to-be, Lindsay Jennings

IF ever there was a time to have a massage this was it. Seven months pregnant, with leg cramps acting as a regular nocturnal alarm clock, not to mention heartburn, back twinges all part of the joys of impending motherhood. A trip to Matfen Hall Hotel's spa in Northumberland with my mum was going to be just the ticket.

The day began with a welcome drink before a swim in the spa's 16-metre swimming pool.

The support of the water felt wonderful on a growing tum and the baby's recent weight gain was soon apparent when I got out and it was grabbed by gravity.

Then it was on to the new life massage, which is suitable for women who are 12 weeks pregnant or more. After a consultation, the therapist ensured I was comfy on the bed, raising the head slightly so I wasn't laying flat on my back.

Then, she began with laying her hands on my shoulders before using blissful sweeping movements, gently massaging the tension away from my legs and arms and those sore calf muscles.

For the reverse, I moved to the chair, leaning over Christine Keeler-style, so she could reach my neck, shoulders and back without squashing the little one.

There has been much written on essential oils which are considered safe to use in pregnancy and those which are considered a danger, by possibly bringing on labour. The therapist used luxury body cream from Matfen's acclaimed Comfort Zone range of products as opposed to essential oils. (Some spas differ, using gentler oils such as rose).

Each of the therapists at Matfen is trained in the same massage technique when using the Comfort Zone range and it certainly shows. The therapist used firm movements when needed, popping the knots in my shoulders, but prompted relaxation too, manipulating the feet in softer, sweeping moves. I've had many massages, but the technique used set the Matfen massage apart as one of the best.

Floating out of the room, I met mum in the relaxation room with a glass of water in her hand. Her hair was stuck up, having had a prescription facial, and she had a sleepy smile on her face, staring off into space.

Fortunately, the fluffy white dressing gowns and her fluffy blonde hair were obligatory requirements for the spa's café area, as opposed to being solid reasons for being ejected.

I tucked into the club sandwich and mum had smoked salmon in ciabatta with a citrus accompaniment which brought us back to the land of the living - but not for long.

While she headed off for a manicure, I had a luxury Jessica pedicure, fantastic when the burgeoning bump means it's a struggle to reach the toes. My feet were soaked in warm water, exfoliated, and buffed free of dry skin.

After being moisturised, the therapist applied a base coat for each individual toe's needs (apparently the middle three were a bit thirsty) and lashings of gorgeous red polish, with each Jessica client allowed to take home the bottle at the end.

After a day at Matfen, the calves no longer felt tight and the back ache had eased, leaving a feeling of serenity in their wake. Mum's hair was still misbehaving, but all were signs of a very good day.

* The new life massage is priced at £55, with a Jessica pedicure from £34.

An average spa day package costs £125.

Contact the spa reception at Matfen on 01661-855725, email spa@matfenhall.com or log onto www.matfenhall.com