MOTHERS who have twins, triplets, quads or quints can share their experiences at a new group.

The More the Merrier group, based in Darlington, offers support to mothers who have had multiple births, and provides activities for their children.

It is one of the first groups of its kind in the region, and was set up by three mothers of twins who realised there needed to be more support for women like them.

Kay Clegg, Tabitha Dowson and Helen Newton, all from Darlington, hold fortnightly sessions. So far, they have held three meetings.

Mrs Dowson, mother of two-year-old boys James and Ethan, said the group was growing in size and reputation.

She said: "There are quite a lot of similar groups to ours around the country, but not many in the North-East, and none around the Darlington area, so we all agreed there should be something. We know there are quite a few twins in and around Darlington, and we want to offer some support and share experiences.

"We have had one lady who is pregnant with twins coming along, so she knows there is support there for her.

"We have had people coming from as far afield as Durham and Catterick so, hopefully, word is getting around."

At their meeting this week, mothers mingled and shared ideas and stories about their children, while the youngsters -all under pre-school age -took part in an art project to make angels for Christmas.

Mrs Dowson said: "We would love to see as many mothers with their twins, or triplets or quads turn up as possible."

The group said that although they meet fortnightly, they could meet weekly if demand was high.

There is a charge of £1 a family each session. To join, call (01325) 258863.