HEALTH campaigners have launched a fundraising drive to pay for a dedicated breastfeeding counsellor for new mums in Rossendale.

The Bury, Rossendale and North Manchester branch of the National Childbirth Trust launched the appeal as part of Breastfeeding Awareness Week, which starts on Sunday.

The group said the new counsellor would form part of the extra support network they are campaigning for and which they claim is urgently needed for new mums in the area.

The trust wants greater help to be on offer for breastfeeding mothers after latest statistics revealed 90 per cent of mothers who stop breastfeeding within six weeks would have liked to continue if they had received the right help and support.

Reasons for stopping included soreness, anxiety about the baby getting enough milk and feeds taking too long.

The trust believes all of the problems listed can be prevented if mothers received extra support and guidance.

Sarah Barrie, chair of the local branch, said: "Breastfeeding is a skill. Negative attitudes and lack of support can undemrine a woman's confidence in her ability.

"Friends and family can suport breastfeeding by accepting mother's decision and encouraging her to ask for help if she needs it.

"We must all accept breastfeeding as normal."

The group is also pushing for greater tolerance and excouragement of breastfeeding in workplaces, shops, restaurants and other public places.

As part of the fundraising drive a spring fair will be held at St Veronica's Church Hall, Helmshore Road, Helmshore, on Sunday, between 2pm and 4pm.

There will be a breastfeeding stand where interested mothers and families can find out more.

The child in the best fancy dress on the day will also win a prize while stalls include face painting, hair braiding, cakes and plants and a Body Shop stand.

A drop-in session will also be held on Thursday, at the home of the group's trainee counsellor between 10am and noon.

Call Sarah Little on 01706 223623 for more details.