A FAMILY centre in north Durham is launching an initiative to convince new mums breast is best.

Leadgate Children’s Centre, on West Street, is launching a breastfeeding event to encourage more mums-to-be to breastfeed.

The NHS antenatal initiative ‘Birth and Beyond’ is launching in the area and an event has been organised for Friday, June 28 to highlight to parents and expectant mothers the benefits of breastfeeding and the support available.

Sara Hunter, health visitor, said: “We are delighted to be launching the NHS Birth and Beyond initiative in the Consett area during National Breastfeeding Awareness Week.

“We are inviting all mams to join us and we are planning a really busy afternoon so why not drop in and find out how we can support you and your baby to have the best possible start in life.”

The event will take place between 12.30 and 3.00pm with a breastfeeding group meeting in the morning.

Advice and support on alcohol and stopping smoking will be available via One Point health visitors and a story corner will keep toddlers amused.

Refreshments are being provided by the food technology students from Consett Academy.