MEET Sedgemoor, Taunton Deane and West Somerset's new team of breastfeeding peer supporters.

The group of women pictured has completed 20 hours of training with National Childbirth Trust (NCT) trainer and breastfeeding councillor Sarah Harcombe to enable them to provide support to mothers in the area.

The training was funded by the NCT Taunton branch via a grant from Awards for All.

The peer supporters are now volunteering in the NCT Bumps, Babies and Breastfeeding group in Cannington as well as at children's centres in Williton, Nether Stowey, Alcombe and Taunton.

Sarah Harcombe said: "Around 80 per cent of mothers begin breastfeeding, but by the time their babies are six-weeks old, this has dropped to 55 per cent.

"The common reasons for stopping breastfeeding are insufficient milk, baby not latching and pain - peer supporters are trained in how to support mums in overcoming these challenges.

Later this month on Monday, March 20, the Cannington Bumps, Babies and Breastfeeding group is holding a event for pregnant women who would like to find out more about breastfeeding.

There will be the chance to have a relaxed and informal chat with peer supporters and other mums with tea, cake, and a free goody bag.

"We will also have the Carry-Me-Kate sling library available for those interested in using a baby sling and a cloth nappy library - a great environmentally sustainable and cheaper alternative to disposable nappies.

The Cannington, Bumps, Babies and Breastfeeding group meets on Mondays between10.30am and 12.30pm at the Cannington United Reform Church.