HALTON midwives have encouraged more mums to breastfeed and won a prestigious accolade.

Health visiting and midwifery teams in Runcorn and Widnes have been awarded a United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Baby Friendly Award.

Carole Brazier, infant feeding coordinator for Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Breastfeeding protects babies against a wide range of serious illnesses including gastroenteritis and respiratory infection as well as asthma, cardiovascular disease and diabetes in later life.

“We also know that breastfeeding reduces the mother’s risk of some cancers although mums might be more interested in hearing that it is easier, cheaper and simply less hassle than bottle feeding.”

The award was given to Bridgewater after an assessment by a UNICEF team recognised best practice standards are in place.

Sue Ashmore, UNICEF baby friendly initiative programme director, said: "We are delighted that Bridgewater has achieved full baby friendly status.

“Surveys show us that most mothers want to breastfeed but don’t always get the support they need.

“Mothers in Halton can be confident that all Bridgewater staff will provide high standards of care.”